Global Dispatches -- World News That Matters

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The longest running independent international affairs podcast features in-depth interviews with policymakers, journalists and experts around the world who discuss global news, international relations, global development and key trends driving world affairs.Named by The Guardian as "a podcast to make you smarter," Global Dispatches is a podcast for people who crave a deeper understanding of international news.

Recent Episodes
  • Trump’s Tariffs Are Making a Mess at the UN | To Save Us From Hell
    Apr 14, 2025 – 20:20
  • Analyzing The Geopolitical Fallout As Trump’s Trade War Takes Shape
    Apr 9, 2025 – 26:16
  • Something Strange is Happening in Canada
    Apr 7, 2025 – 29:19
  • Crisis in Myanmar: Earthquake Aftermath and the Global Response
    Apr 3, 2025 – 31:11
  • A First Hand View Of What Happens When Aid Funding Dries Up
    Mar 31, 2025 – 25:21
  • Crisis at the UN Refugee Agency and International Organization for Migration | To Save Us From Hell
    Mar 27, 2025 – 26:24
  • The View From Panama
    Mar 24, 2025 – 24:12
  • When Treaties Work: The Basel Convention on Hazardous Wastes
    Mar 20, 2025 – 25:57
  • South Sudan is on the Brink of a Full-Blown Civil War
    Mar 17, 2025 – 30:35
  • Trump's War on Women Comes to the UN
    Mar 13, 2025 – 34:36
  • Introducing: "Hidden Depths"
    Mar 10, 2025 – 20:25
  • Our Global Humanitarian System is Collapsing
    Mar 6, 2025 – 30:04
  • Seismic Shift At The UN Following A Jaw-Dropping Vote On Ukraine | To Save Us From Hell
    Mar 3, 2025 – 13:30
  • When Treaties Work: The Mine Ban Treaty
    Feb 27, 2025 – 37:16
  • How Ted Turner Changed the World
    Feb 24, 2025 – 32:33
  • Trump's Anti-DEI Crusade Comes to the UN | To Save Us From Hell
    Feb 20, 2025 – 28:17
  • Has Trump Destroyed Our Defense Against Pandemics?
    Feb 17, 2025 – 38:18
  • Is There a Trump Peace Plan for Ukraine? | The Wall Street Journal’s Yaroslav Trofimov
    Feb 13, 2025 – 23:05
  • Congo in Crisis: What’s Driving the Violence and How Can it End?
    Feb 10, 2025 – 30:43
  • Can the UN Survive Trump 2.0?
    Feb 5, 2025 – 43:03
  • Assessing the Impact of Trump’s Foreign Aid Freeze | Jeremy Konyndyk
    Jan 29, 2025 – 28:18
  • Sri Lanka Shows How to Oust a Corrupt Authoritarian Regime and Stop Democratic Backsliding
    Jan 27, 2025 – 30:40
  • What We Learned from Elise Stefanik's Confirmation Hearing for UN Ambassador
    Jan 23, 2025 – 47:31
  • Can the Gaza Ceasefire Hold?
    Jan 20, 2025 – 31:26
  • Why People Believe Misinformation in War
    Jan 16, 2025 – 26:38
  • Better Know Trump's Foreign Policy Team
    Jan 13, 2025 – 28:28
  • What to Expect from the UN in 2025 | To Save Us From Hell
    Jan 9, 2025 – 38:23
  • When Treaties Work: The Chemical Weapons Convention
    Jan 6, 2025 – 47:45
  • How a School Milk Program is Fighting Hunger in Yemen | From Fragility to Stability
    Jan 1, 2025 – 20:12
  • An Inside look at Jimmy Carter's Quest to Kill the Last Guinea Worm
    Dec 30, 2024 – 29:14
  • A Top NGO Official Explains the Difficult Dynamics of Getting Aid into Gaza and Syria
    Dec 24, 2024 – 20:43
  • Putting Women's Empowerment at the Center of Resilience Building | From Fragility to Stability
    Dec 19, 2024 – 37:17
  • Will There Be a Coming Trade War?
    Dec 16, 2024 – 30:57
  • What Syria's Political Future May Look Like | Emma Beals
    Dec 12, 2024 – 28:45
  • What is Biden's Africa Legacy? (And Will Trump Blow It Up?)
    Dec 9, 2024 – 24:37
  • How to Navigate Climate Security and Resilience in the Sahel | From Fragility to Stability
    Dec 5, 2024 – 27:49
  • Why Ebola is No Longer a Great Global Threat
    Dec 2, 2024 – 20:37
  • A Political Earthquake in Botswana
    Nov 25, 2024 – 21:58
  • The Crisis in Haiti Has Taken a Dramatic Turn for the Worse
    Nov 21, 2024 – 30:31
  • A Heavy Shadow Looms Over, COP 29 the Major UN Climate Conference
    Nov 18, 2024 – 23:03
  • How to Escape the Nexus of Climate Change, Conflict and Forced Displacement | From Fragility to Stability
    Nov 14, 2024 – 28:37
  • What the Republican Election Sweep Means for the United Nations
    Nov 11, 2024 – 24:27
  • What Trump's Victory Means For US Foreign Policy | Politico's Robbie Gramer
    Nov 7, 2024 – 19:27
  • The High Geopolitical Stakes of Georgia's Parliamentary Elections
    Nov 4, 2024 – 22:44
  • How Social Assistance Can Improve Mental Health in Fragile Settings | "From Fragility to Stability"
    Oct 31, 2024 – 33:39
  • A New Crisis in Lebanon
    Oct 28, 2024 – 25:25
  • How to Better Deliver Humanitarian and Social Assistance in Fragile Settings | "From Fragility to Stability"
    Oct 24, 2024 – 28:17
  • "The Tech Coup" is a Brilliant New Book That Describes How the Tech Industry Captured Government
    Oct 21, 2024 – 27:51
  • Why "Anticipatory Action" Is Required in Fragile and Conflict Settings | From Fragility to Stability
    Oct 17, 2024 – 28:42
  • Are Sudan's "Emergency Response Rooms" the Future of Humanitarian Assistance?
    Oct 14, 2024 – 26:25
Recent Reviews
  • Exasperatd
    Disappointingly Naive
    Only recently came to this podcast. So, this review is primarily a response to the podcast on the China-USA relationship, as evidenced by the proposed actions against TikTok. Will listen to more episodes in the future, hopefully with better insight.
  • DelCoTrash
    Excellent Africa analysis
    Its rare to find long form in depth reporting on events in Africa. This podcast regularly devotes entire episodes to African news and generally offers a good perspective for listeners who dont normally deep dive into it
  • Kayla92075
    Great Informative Podcast! Distracting Intro
    This is a super informative podcast re international affairs. Highly reccomend! Lately it’s seemed the like intro voices are robotic and flat, as if they are generated by AI. It’s distracting! I could be wrong but every time I hear the intro it sounds so different and robotic. Otherwise the contest is very informative and overall a great podcast.
  • Tim K S
    In-depth interviews
    This is an excellent podcast for anyone involved in (or who cares about) international humanitarian issues and perspectives.
  • Andieo1997
    Brilliant!
    This is the perfect choice for anyone interested in learning more about international affairs! Each episode is informative and enjoyable.
  • IAdcl
    Recommend
    I’ve been listening for years, probably my first podcast I really started to listening to right as I was getting out of college. If you are interested in global development, intl relationship, social science, history, current geo-political topics, etc…this is the place for you.
  • bibliophile_VA
    Insightful podcast
    As someone who works in international development, I greatly appreciate this podcast. The discussions are insightful and informative. The podcast production value is high. And I really like the breadth and depth of the coverage.
  • imelda26
    Great podcast!
    I was looking for a podcast to keep me more informed with what goes on in the world. I came across this one and I’m happy to have found it! Great topics being discussed and it’s very non-biased and great host!!
  • ClintonGore92
    Exceptional International News Podcast
    UN Dispatches is the type of in-depth, beyond the headlines analysis of international news unavailable anywhere else in the podcasting universe. The breadth of topics is so refreshing compared to the same stories that get reported ad nauseam in the biggest news outlets. You will not find this depth of coverage anywhere else - including first hand accounts and reporting from experts worldwide. UN Dispatches breaks down the kind of stories I wish there were more of in the world. Topics are focused upon, amplified and explored in a way that gives the listener new perspectives and can even make you rethink longstanding beliefs. For current events paired with the background, history, prominent players and outlook for the future you cannot find anywhere else, this podcast is a must listen.
  • MBrighten
    Great insight and interesting, relevant topics
    Just finished the episode an Update from Brazil and as always it provided insightful commentary and the topic was timely and interesting. Great pod though maybe slightly specialized.
  • BSwats
    Love this podcast
    Neutral, informative, well researched and touches subjects and issues that other media outlets don’t. Atleast not in such detail. Well done Guys.
  • Conner.P
    The best
    Incredibly informing and non-biased global information presented in a clear and direct manner. This podcast is highly recommended for all who seek a more global-minded perspective. The author also listens and responds to requests and feedback from the listeners.
  • franieboots
    Fast information for slow subjects
    This podcast in an excellent way to stay current on numerous subjects related to foreign policy. Mark interviews relevant and articulate people working in the guts of the given topic, producing a mid range discussion that is approachable and moderately challenging in its detail level. The information has a long shelf life. If shows like Democracy Now! or a more mainstream news is like a sugary drink, Global Dispatches is a low-glycemic nutritious conversation chalk full of fiber. It nurtures the intellect without playing to basic emotions as “infotainment”. In a world of deafening screams and nonsensical polemicists and op ed journalism, it is among my most trusted foreign policy / news podcasts.
  • JNahm21
    Amazing listen to learn about global events
    I think this podcast is amazing for both foreign policy beginners and experts who want to learn about topics they aren’t familiar with. Mark does a great job of guiding conversations and breaking down concepts that everyone can understand. His wide range of guests and topics also allow listeners to learn about more subtle, non-headlining news.
  • Sam_311
    A terrific show!
    A great resource for anyone seeking to learn more about foreign affairs, global health, and everything else in between!
  • Lampard fan
    Great Global News and Policy Podcast
    This podcast does a great job not only of shedding a light on underreported news stories around the world, but bringing in experts who can share a nuanced perspective on the issue and possible policies and outcomes. I tell everyone I know about this podcast who’s interested in world affairs!
  • Matthew C. Johnson
    Invaluable Resource
    With each episode, Mark provides a well-informed discussion, with just the right guest, to help his listeners gain an understanding of a critical (and frequently poorly covered) issue in world affairs. Mark's podcast is an invaluable resource for understanding the world that we live in. Global Dispatches gets my highest recommendation.
  • Mills Jordan
    Global Dispatches
    Incredibly intelligent insights and conversations which cover topics that often slip through the cracks of mainstream media. Anyone looking for a fascinating half hour to learn about impactful geopolitical developments should subscribe
  • Cormac B.
    Best Podcast to Hike With!
    I have loved this podcast for years, the host does a spectacular job of finding topics ignored by the media that are not only important but fascinating. The speakers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, from policy makers to thought leaders. I’ve worked in Yellowstone the past three summers; when I go hiking I listen to Global Dispatches as a way to keep bears aware of my location! Can’t recommend it enough,
  • Thorvardur
    Higly Recommended
    Global Dispatches is a must listen for anyone interested in global affairs. Mark is an excellent host and always has interesting guest on to discuss matters which are often underreported in the media. I've been listening for a few years and it's one of my favorites.
  • nickname2000nineteen
    Efficiently thorough and delightfully candid
    That the episodes typically run just 30 minutes belies the depth of discussion and ground covered. The host, Mark, and his guests explore critical issues that are seldom broached through more mainstream channels. Discussions also remain fact-based and appreciate the importance of historical contexts. A valuable addition to any geopolitical podcast library.
  • ferventpodcaster
    Highly Recommend
    Recently came across this podcast and I love it already! It is especially great for someone in college, working full time, or have an otherwise busy schedule and may not have time to sit down and watch the news - but have the curiosity to stay informed. Excited to keep listening!
  • Treepixie
    Snappy not sanctimonious
    I love this podcast it’s the only decent one I’ve come across in the development space. Also gotta love a tight 10-25min time range.
  • church82274
    GOAT for foreign affairs
    My go-to podcast for both mainstream and overlooked news in foreign affairs. Global Dispatches is always timely with a nuanced discussion of major events in the world, while also giving notice to issues that don’t make the front pages of your preferred news source. I love this podcast
  • Edward_Smith
    Excellent foreign policy content
    Towards the end of last year I found myself frustrated by how domestic-focused all of my podcasts were and wanted to branch out. I tried out a handful of other foreign policy podcasts but this is the only one that made the cut. Great guests, insightful commentary, and always fascinating and eye-opening topics.
  • Libegal85
    Foreign Policy Insights
    I find this podcast to very informative with interesting interviews with diplomats at various levels, particularly some who have had past careers in difficult or underreported postings. I cannot recommend this podcast enough.
  • Snooplez❤️~
    Insightful Podcast
    One of the few podcasts I have with such a variety of international topics covered episode by episode. This series is a treasure trove of all sorts of under-covered stories that I think can help anyone construct a more complete world view.
  • Chank Smiff
    One Of The Few IR Podcasts Doing It Right
    Varied stories and perspectives, interesting guests, very good podcasts that go deep on particular issues that more largely affect IR.
  • dancurtis87
    A current affairs gem
    Global Dispatches is insightful, to the point and always a great listen!
  • cgmoyn93
    Staple for a global news diet
    Listening to this podcast will improve your understanding of headlines that you may skim by and bring your attention to issues that don’t break into the 24-hour news cycle. The interviews are informative and thoughtful. Haven’t missed an episode since I subscribed. Thank you to Mark Leon Goldberg for your excellent work and dedication!
  • 171482348
    Truly phenomenal podcast!
    I recently discovered this podcast, and have quickly made my way through the past year’s worth of episodes. This is a very very interesting podcast for anyone interested in foreign policy and world affairs. I recently graduated and have been thinking about working in IR or foreign policy, and this podcast has helped affirm that desire.
  • Suave Kill'em
    Excellent
    This a great podcast that dives in the fine details of current issues in international affairs. Mark always brings on informative subject matter experts.
  • gladater
    Required Listening!
    This podcast is invaluable to foreign policy/ IR beginners and veterans alike - Mark Leon Goldberg's interview's are topical and thought-provoking, and provide essential analyses of current and past events of global importance. I would definitely recommend keeping up with Global Dispatches if you're interested in world affairs.
  • ww1896
    excellent
    Smart, informative interviews on undreported but important topics.
  • kelliwags
    Great insight
    This is one of my top 3 podcasts. Great for humanitarians or those interested in world affairs. I come to this field with very little experience and no formal education, so I really appreciate that the lay person can keep up.
  • Afrosheenqueen
    Thoughtful and interesting
    Really good interviews that give background to the world’s current issues.
  • PhilRodgers
    Good Global Perspective
    I worked for an international human rights NGO and rely and enjoy the detailed and thoughful discussions about current events and interviews.
  • Níks
    Very interesting content
    Mark is always asking the right questions and has a really good grasp of human rights policy and the UN. Interviews with activists and leaders are a neat addition too.
  • dbreunig
    Great Exploration of Messy Global Issues
    My favorite aspect of podcasts is that the format allows for discourse, wide raning exporation, and negotiation. Issues, especially those across cultures and governments, are usually not simple. They resist encapsulation by headlines. Global Dispatches is a great podcast because it takes it's time on an issue, invites in experienced voices, and asks pertinent questions.
  • Robert Hockema
    International relations student
    Mark's podcast is really useful for me as an international relations student. I think it strikes a nice balance between generally accessible (for people who aren't total foreign affairs nerds) and thoroughly informative (for people like me).
  • KatieW13
    Wonderful!
    This show is great! It highlights world events and brings depth to the conversations with real world rockstars. A great resource for world news, an inspiring array of contributers, and a thoughtful host. Aboslutely worth adding to your arsenal of globally rooted podcasts!
  • /u/JakeZachJeff1
    An excellent project
    This podcast is among the best that I know in terms of its incredible selection of smart, interesting people to interview. The host is tremendously successful at getting the interview subjects to really open up and provide fascinating insight into their own area of expertise and their experiences. This definitely ranks highly among the podcasts that I would recommend to a friend just getting into the medium.
  • Fard_Ad
    Informational/insightful
    This podcast never ceases to snatch my wig!! Excellent insight into global affairs- a good podcast!
  • vvrules21
    Incredibly informative and interesting!
    If you’re looking to be educated on world issues with a fresh perspective then I would highly suggest this podcast. I have told all my friends and family about it and how Mark does a wonderful job at keeping his listeners engaged. Different episodes range from emotional and inspiring stories to insightful information on current events. I would rate it 10 stars if I could!
  • CCaywood
    Great Foreign Policy Podcast
    This podcast is easily accessible for people of all levels when it comes to foreign policy engagement. As someone who is relatively new to the foreign policy world, this podcast is simultaneously simple to follow and highly informative/thought-provoking. The conversational nature of the program is also something I find helpful to my understanding of the subjects discussed.
  • fr786
    Highly recommend!
    Thought-provoking and profound in-depth substance of everything from world affairs and foreign policy to pressing political issues on the daily. Global Dispatches is one of my first introductions to podcasts on iTunes, and I’m so glad I found it! Thank you for your insight - I learn so much!
  • natalievhix
    top notch for global affairs
    This podcast is the best of the bunch for those who wish to be engaged with the happenings of the world, whether that individual is a high schooler with a vague global interest or an established professional in the field. A range of issues are covered to appeal to all interests, and the unique perspectives of those being interviewed provide a human side to the titles on the news. All of them are incredibly inspiring people, and they’ll expose you to ideas you’ve never considered. Personally, I had a fairly niche interest in wanting to learn about the Middle East when I subscribed, but the episodes in places across the globe have been some of my favorites. It’s run by people who truly care about spreading accurate information and about creating the best possible experience for those listening, and you can easily see that through the quality production. This is definitely the top podcast I recommend to all my friends who want to become stronger global citizens.
  • lucer09
    Intelligent conversations about important topics with interesting guests
    Mark conducts great interviews and covers issues that don’t get a lot of coverage elsewhere. He interviews a wide range of interesting people who describe various global issues and provide interesting stories about their background. This is by far the best podcast on foreign policy and international affairs I’ve been able to find, and it’s become an important resource in helping me stay informed on global issues.
  • ascdiabla
    Great global news source
    This podcast offers a vast variety of topics and insights into global politics and theory. Hosts are easy to listen to and guests are decorated and knowledgeable.
  • if time exists
    My favorite foreign policy podcast
    I love Mark’s mix of topics, from going deep on what’s in the news to shedding light on issues that aren’t discussed by the mainstream media. My favorite interviews tend to be ones where he spends some time covering the career of his interviewee - these usually spark really interesting conversations and help ground today’s issues in recent history. Keep up the good work!
Disclaimer: The podcast and artwork on this page are property of the podcast owner, and not endorsed by UP.audio.