Michael Rass

Michael Rass has written 140 posts for PRI's The World

John Brennan Expected to Face Scrutiny Over America’s Drone Strategy in Senate Hearing

John Brennan, President Obama’s pick to take over as director of the CIA, faces a confirmation hearing in the Senate on Thursday, and it’s all but certain he will be quizzed about drones.

Israeli Legal Expert: Lack of Judicial Oversight in Targeted Killings a ‘Recipe for Disaster’

Amos Guiora gave legal advice on targeted killings to the Israeli Defense Force in Gaza in the 1990s. He’s troubled by the vague language in the leaked Justice Department memo, and tells anchor Marco Werman why he thinks the lack of judicial oversight in targeted killings is a ‘recipe for disaster.’

PuSh Performance Takes Audience Members on Sightseeing Tour Blindfolded

For the Geo Quiz we’re looking for a Canadian city with a vibrant art scene. Right now the city hosting a performing arts festival. One of the performances there requires audience members to be blindfolded and led around the city by a volunteer guide.

Why President Obama Embraces Drones

The UN is launching an investigation into the impact of drone strikes and so-called targeted killings on civilians. Marco Werman speaks with Daniel Klaidman of the Daily Beast, who has interviewed hundreds of US officials about the Obama Administration’s embrace of drones.

Cuba Activates Undersea Internet Cable Line

Analysts monitoring internet usage on the island say Cuban officials appear to have activated an undersea cable line linking the island to the Internet via Venezuela, as opposed to the slower satellite-based access the island has had for years.

Barbara’s Göttingen: A Song That Made History

France and Germany on Tuesday mark the 50th anniversary of a key treaty that officially cemented the peaceful reconciliation of the two nations two decades after World War II. Another factor that cemented the nascent France-Germany friendship in the 1960′s was a song by French singer Barbara.

50 Years Élysée Treaty: A Cornerstone of Peace in Europe

France and Germany are celebrating the anniversary of a friendship treaty signed by Charles de Gaulle and Konrad Adenauer on January 22nd, 1963. It was concluded following three devastating military conflicts [...]

Why the US is Staying Out of Mali

Washington is keeping the conflict in the West African nation of Mali at arm’s length. American officials say they are providing intelligence to France and are considering deploying American aircraft to land in Mali for airlift or logistical support. But there are no plans to send American troops.

Sufi Cleric Behind Pakistan Protests

For the third straight day, protesters in Islamabad demanded the current government step down and be replaced by a caretaker regime until elections are held. The protests are being led by Tahir ul-Qadri, who’s frequently been described in the press as a ‘firebrand cleric.’

Kita Nago: Walking Across Haiti for Unity

The Geo Quiz takes us to Haiti this time, where an unusual event is taking place. It’s a combination flashmob, religious pilgrimage, and parade, called Kita Nago, but what exactly is this Kita Nago? And where is it going?

Indian City Considers CCTV Cameras on Buses

One Delhi suburb wants to install closed circuit television cameras in all of the city’s buses. The idea is to deter sexual violence and other types of crime.

Pakistani Activist Killed in Quetta Attacks

Shiite Muslims in Pakistan are angrily demanding protection from the government after a wave of attacks left about 120 people dead on Thursday. Two blasts targeted Shiites in the city of Quetta. One of those killed there was beloved human rights activist Irfan Ali, who was immediately mourned by fellow activists on Twitter.

Travel Restrictions to Ease for Cubans But Limits Will Remain

Cubans are pumped up about a big change coming on Monday. That’s when a new law takes effect that allows most Cubans to travel without seeking special government permission but some restrictions will still remain.

Farewell, Fred Voodoo: A Letter from Haiti

Amy Wilentz has a new book about Haiti called Farewell, Fred Voodoo. She tells anchor Marco Werman about the themes of the book, including the disappearance of everyday objects that used to be made in Haiti.

President Obama Nominates Another Vietnam Veteran For Cabinet Post

With Monday’s nomination of former Senator Chuck Hagel for Secretary of Defense, and last month’s nomination of John Kerry for Secretary of State, President Obama has chosen a foreign policy team headed by Vietnam veterans.