AROUND THE WORLD WITH DANE WATERS
bringing you the world every week
Episode 3.59 - The Loss of Democracy in Zambia
Please join me for an important conversation with my special guest, former Zambian Ambassador and Tonse-Pamodza Alliance spokesperson Emmanuel Mwamba, as we examine the fallout from Zambia’s recent disputed presidential election. We’ll discuss the controversies surrounding the election, what the result and the disputes that followed mean for Zambia’s democratic standing, and the political developments that brought the country to this point. We’ll also look at the growing concerns over political institutions, opposition rights, electoral credibility and the future of democratic competition in Zambia — and ask the larger question: Where does Zambia go from here?
Episode 3.58 - The Intersection of the Environment and Politics
Please join me and my special guest, UK Green Party member and environmentalist Wanja Kaufmann, as we discuss the increasingly important intersection of the environment and politics. From climate change and energy policy to conservation, economic growth, and the choices governments make about our future, environmental issues are becoming impossible to separate from politics. How do we balance environmental responsibility with economic realities? Are governments doing enough? And what role should environmental concerns play in shaping the political decisions we make today?
Episode 3.57 - Should Ukraine Hold Elections?
Please join me and my special guest, Ukraine Government Advisor and Political Analyst Maksym Turkevych, as we examine the growing debate over whether Ukraine should hold elections while the war with Russia continues. With new calls for Ukrainians to return to the ballot box—and President Volodymyr Zelensky warning that wartime elections could divide the country—we’ll discuss what an election could mean for Zelensky’s political future, Ukraine’s democracy, national unity, and the country’s ongoing war against Russia. Can Ukraine realistically hold free and fair elections during wartime? Would an election strengthen Ukrainian democracy—or risk dividing the country at a critical moment? And if Ukrainians do eventually go to the polls, what could the political future of Ukraine look like?
Episode 3.56 - The Reality in Lebanon
Please join me and my special guest, Middle East journalist Antoni Barakat, for an important conversation about the reality on the ground in Lebanon—and a country caught at the center of one of the Middle East’s most dangerous political and military struggles. We’ll discuss Lebanon’s continuing political and economic challenges, the enormous pressure being placed on ordinary Lebanese, and the increasingly difficult question of Hezbollah’s role and its weapons.
Episode 3.55 - Israel's Rejection of Trump's Gaza Peace Deal
Please join me and my special guest, Middle East expert Saul Sadka, for a timely discussion about what could be a pivotal moment in the long-running conflict in Gaza. President Donald Trump has put forward an ambitious plan aimed at ending the conflict, disarming Hamas, establishing new governance in Gaza and ultimately securing the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Hamas has agreed to a framework for relinquishing its weapons and transferring control, potentially opening the door to reconstruction and a new political future for Gaza. But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the latest roadmap, insisting that Israel will not withdraw its forces until Hamas has been fully disarmed—a disagreement that has created a significant test of the relationship between Trump and Netanyahu.
Episode 3.54 - The Current State of Ghana
Please join me for a timely conversation with my special guest, Ghanaian energy executive George Wireko-Brobby, as we take an in-depth look at Ghana today — and where the country goes from here. We’ll discuss the current economic and political state of Ghana, the challenges facing the country, and the opportunities that could shape its future. From economic growth, jobs and investment to energy, infrastructure and political leadership, we’ll explore what is working, what needs to change, and what Ghana must do to realize its enormous potential.
Episode 3.53 - Andy Burnham in No. 10 - What Should We Expect?
Please join me and my special guest, journalist Thomas Munson, as we take a closer look at Britain’s new political era under Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Just weeks into his premiership, Burnham has assembled a new Cabinet and begun setting out his priorities for the country. But what does his government represent—a genuine change in direction for Britain, or simply a new face at the top?
Episode 3.52 - Nigeria's 2027 Presidential Election. Who'll Win?
Please join me and my special guest, public affairs analyst Jide Ojo, as we take an in-depth look at Nigeria’s upcoming presidential election and the political battle already taking shape. We’ll examine the leading candidates and emerging alliances, the strengths and weaknesses of the major political parties, and the economic, regional, religious, and political forces that could ultimately determine the election.
Episode 3.51 - US Midterm Elections. The Impact of the Iran War.
Please join me and my special guest, Global Affairs Analyst Ejike Okpa, for an in-depth discussion of two of the most consequential issues shaping international politics today: the upcoming U.S. midterm elections and the far-reaching geopolitical consequences of the Iran war. We'll examine how the shifting political landscape in the United States could influence American foreign policy, explore the strategic implications of the conflict with Iran, and discuss what these developments mean for global stability, international alliances, energy markets, and the balance of power in an increasingly uncertain world.
Episode 3.50 - Is America Safe For Foreigners?
Join me and my special guest, former U.S. immigration official Gail Montenegro, for an in-depth discussion on one of the most important and controversial issues facing America today: immigration. We'll examine the Trump administration's crackdown on both legal and illegal immigration, separate fact from fiction, and explore what the policy changes mean for immigrants, employers, border security, and the future of the U.S. immigration system.
Episode 3.49 - The U.S. - Iran War. Views from Israel
Join me and my special guest, Dr. Einat Wilf, former member of the Israeli Knesset and former Chair of the Oz Party, for a timely discussion on the U.S.–Iran conflict and its far-reaching regional and global implications. Together, we'll examine the strategic objectives of the key players, the impact on Israel and the broader Middle East, the role of the United States and its allies, and what this escalating confrontation could mean for international security, energy markets, and the future of global geopolitics. Don't miss this insightful conversation with one of Israel's leading voices on foreign policy, national security, and the changing dynamics of the Middle East.
Episode 3.48 - Extremism in Europe
Please join me and my special guest, former diplomat and global affairs analyst Pierre Le Goff, for an in-depth discussion on the dramatic rise of right-wing populism and political extremism across Europe. We'll explore the forces driving this shift, the implications for democracy and security, and what these changes could mean for the future of Europe—and the wider world.
Episode 3.47 - Climate Change and Human Rights
Please join me and my special guest, activist, agitator, and public relations strategist David Fenton, as we discuss climate change, human rights, and the current state of American politics. Drawing on decades of experience at the intersection of advocacy, media, and public affairs, David shares his perspective on the challenges facing the country, the power of strategic communication, and what it will take to build meaningful political and social change.
Episode 3.46 - US-Iran Face Off. What's Next?
Please join me and journalist and global affairs expert Gareth Browne as we take a deep look at the escalating war between the United States and Iran. We discuss the current state of the conflict, the growing threat of a wider regional war, the battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz, and what could come next for Iran, the United States, and the Middle East.
Episode 3.45 - Russian and Chinese Influence in Africa
Please join me and my special guest, award-winning investigative journalist Philip Obaji Jr., as we take a deep look at the growing influence of Russia and China across Africa. From political interference and disinformation campaigns to economic leverage, military partnerships, and the battle for access to Africa's vast natural resources, we'll explore how Moscow and Beijing are reshaping the continent—and what it means for Africa, the West, and the future of global power. Don't miss this important and timely conversation.
Episode 3.44 - Reflections from the UK on America’s Birthday
Please join me and my special guest, UK political commentator and journalist Thomas Munson, as we explore how Britain views America's 250th birthday. From the Revolution that changed the course of history to the enduring Special Relationship and the challenges facing both nations today, we'll examine 250 years of shared history, friendship, and differing perspectives in a timely and thought-provoking conversation.
Episode 3.43 - Reflections from America
Please join me and my special guest, political commentator and journalist Gary Emineth, for a thought-provoking discussion marking America's 250th anniversary. Together, we'll explore the defining moments that shaped the nation—from states' rights and women's suffrage to the presidency of Donald Trump. We'll examine America's greatest achievements, its most enduring challenges, and the opportunities and tests that lie ahead as the nation enters its next 250 years.
Episode 3.42 - The Future of Cuba
Please join me and my special guest, Cuban-American journalist Elio Montenegro, as we take a compelling look at Cuba's past, its complex present, and the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Don't miss this insightful conversation on one of the world's most fascinating and consequential nations.
Episode 3.41 - Medical Care in War Zones
Please join me and my special guest, Elly Nott, Co-Founder of the David Nott Foundation, as we explore the extraordinary challenges of providing healthcare in war zones and conflict-affected countries, and the vital work being done to save lives where medical care is needed most.
Episode 3.40 - Democracy’s World Cup
Please join me and my special guest, journalist and global democracy expert Bruno Kaufmann, as we discuss the FIFA World Cup, the nations behind the teams, and how those countries compare when measured against global standards of democracy, freedom, and civic participation. The World Cup is more than a sporting competition—it is a gathering of nations with vastly different political systems, histories, and values. Together, we will explore how countries represented on football’s biggest stage rank in international assessments of democratic governance, examine the relationship between sport and national identity, and consider how major global events can both reflect and influence political and social change.
Around the World with Dane Waters is a dynamic weekly news program that takes listeners on a deep dive into the most pressing global issues—offering expert analysis, firsthand stories, and thought-provoking discussions. In partnership with Humanity for Freedom Foundation and the Silverbird Group, this show shines a light on the struggles and triumphs of those fighting for freedom and democracy in some of the world’s most challenging regions.
Hosted by Dane Waters, an American global affairs specialist with experience across six continents and more than 100 countries, the show brings together voices from the front lines of geopolitical conflicts and emerging movements for change. From conflict zones to corridors of power, Dane shares unparalleled insights and powerful stories of resilience, courage, and the fight against authoritarianism.
Beyond storytelling and analysis, Around the World with Dane Waters serves as a powerful educational platform, equipping listeners with the knowledge needed to understand global events, historical contexts, and the forces shaping our world today. Whether it's uncovering the roots of conflict, explaining complex international policies, or highlighting grassroots efforts for change, the show fosters deeper awareness and engagement with the critical issues of our time.
With the support of Humanity for Freedom Foundation, a global nonprofit dedicated to protecting and rebuilding lives under threat from authoritarianism, and Silverbird Group, a leader in media and cultural impact, Around the World with Dane Waters is more than just a newscast—it’s a call to action for those who believe in a freer, more just world.