World in Progress

The world's largest airport, an gigantic bridge, an new canal: ambitous infrastructure projects are supposed to make Istanbul a major international logistics hub. But there's also criticism about these mega projects //  The freedom of two wheels and a powerful engine: Women Bikers in India

Venezuela has been suffering from severe hyper-inflation, leading to food and medicine shortages. Millions of people have already left the South American country in search of a better life elsewhere. The crisis has spilled over into other countries in the region, as Venezuela's neighbors Brazil and Colombia struggle to cope with the influx of refugees.

Once they have completed their medical degree, many Ghanaian doctors prefer to move to Europe or North America instead of working in a hospital back home. The problem is even worse in the countryside. And the health professionals, politicians and NGOs who are trying to counter the problems caused by the missing doctors face huge challenges.

Many people in El Salvador were overjoyed when Oscar Romero, was canonized as a saint by the Vatican in October 2018. In 1980, the Arch Bishop had been assassinated by a henchman of the military regime. Romero had spoken out on behalf of the poor, against social injustice, torture and killings. Four decades after his death, he remains an inspiration for many in the troubled country.

Let's dive into the world of music. Did you know the Christmas song Silent Night originated in a small Austrian village 200 years ago? We hear how gospel music in Tanzania is changing as young people take center stage. We'll also have futuristic sounds from Japan and much more here on DW's World in Progress.

As the UN Declaration of Human Rights turns 70, we take a look at the state of human rights. Are our democracies at risk as populism rises? We also go to Jordan to see how Syrian refugees are faring and check in with returnees in Somaliland who are now trying to realize their dreams back home.

Client Earth CEO James Thornton how using the law creatively helps to save the planet / Marid's new traffic restrictions to curb air pollution meet mixed reactions / villagers in India use plastic waste to create new items while protecting their tribal culture and their ancient forest.

To curb air pollution, Madrid now has some of the strictest restrictions for vehicles in Europe. Older cars are banned from entering the inner city, visitors will need special permission. Sidewalks are being widened, and the speed limit has been set at 30 km/h in many places. The decision has proved to be highly controversial — but the left-wing city government remains committed.

The Florida Keys were devastated by Hurricane Irma over one year ago — we check in to see how residents are coping with destructive storms and rising sea levels. We also take a look at new ways of helping the homeless. And just before the COP24 global climate summit kicks off in Poland, we talk about what's at stake and where the stumbling blocs are.

This week on the program we look at how lives can be improved across the world. In a remote village of Kyrgistan, we find out how the internet offers new opportunities. We learn how the UN is supporting change for the millions of migrants and displaced people in Somalia. And we meet girls in a Cairo slum, who are learning to become more self assured.