Tunisia, Cradle Of Arab Spring, In Historic Presidential Vote
The election pits interim President Moncef Marzouki against challenger Beji Caid Essebsi, who held a post in the ousted regime of Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.
Middle East
With Election, Tunisia Solidifies Its Democracy Success Story
Tunisians are casting a historic vote as they choose their first elected president. NPR's Rachel Martin talks to correspondent Leila Fadel about the bright spot in a region roiled with violence.
From Space, Lights Dims In Syria As People Flee War
A new study uses satellite images to assess the humanitarian impact of Syria's civil war. Researchers found a correlation between loss of light and loss of people — those displaced by the conflict.
Latest Attack In Pakistan Could Change How The Country Deals With Militants
The brutal killing of more than 130 children by the Taliban in Pakistan shocked the world this week. The Guardian newspaper's Jon Boone tells NPR's Arun Rath that this could be a watershed.
Excavation Reveals Regular Citizens Who Really Ran Ancient Egypt
A team of archaeologists from Brigham Young University has uncovered an Egyptian cemetery that may have upwards of 1 million graves. NPR's Scott Simon explains they were commoners — not pharaohs.
Youth Who Led Tunisia's Uprising Frustrated With Pace Of Change
The Arab Spring began in Tunisia in 2011 with the ousting of a dictator, but youth in that country seem unenthusiastic about elections on Sunday.
With A Presidential Vote, Tunisia Seeks A Peaceful Transition
Tunisia launched the Arab uprisings four years ago when it ousted a dictator. Sunday's presidential election heralds the country's steady, but not-yet-guaranteed progress.
Death Comes In Many Different Ways. And Some Are A Bit Surprising
A new report looks at the top causes of death in 188 countries. Infectious diseases are less of a threat than in 1990 — but please, look both ways before you cross the street.
A Holy Land Christmas Porridge Honors A Damsel In Distress
Some Christians in Israel and the West Bank celebrate Eid el-Burbara on Dec. 17. The feast honors St. Barbara, an early convert to Christianity whose story is echoed in the Rapunzel tale.
At An Isolated Camp, Iraqi Police Prep For A Showdown With ISIS
Iraqi security forces are training with the goal of reclaiming territory lost to the Islamic State. Police at a camp near the front line say such a battle would be personal.