From 1980 to 2004 the Stanley Center produced Common Ground, an award-winning weekly radio program on world affairs.
Common Ground, a weekly radio program on world affairs, ran from 1980 to 2004. Hundreds of public and noncommerical radio stations across the United States and Canada depended on Common Ground for news and in-depth analysis of critical international issues.
During its tenure, Common Ground earned a reputation for excellence in broadcast journalism and was honored by the Robert F. Kennedy Awards, the Clarion Awards, the New York Festivals, the National Headliner Awards, the American Women in Radio and Television, and other recognitions.
Over the years, Common Ground was produced and hosted by Jeff Martin, Jim Berard, Mary Gray-Davidson, Keith Porter, and Kristin McHugh. This archive contains the audio and transcript files of the show.
China and Taiwan are unlikely trading partners. Yet some say it’s the reason they peacefully coexist. This week’s edition examines the unusual economic relationship between the two countries. Plus, the battle between the US. and Europe over computer privacy
There’s deep disagreement on how to fight global terrorism. This edition focuses on one expert’s call for a wider public debate over the next step in the war on terrorism. Plus, Amnesty International grades the American human rights record in Afghanistan.
Farming subsidies are a hot topic in the countries currently bidding for entry into the European Union. In this program, learn why many in the Czech Republic believe the EU’s rules will punish efficient farms. Plus, hear how one Midwestern state is expanding its international trade to some unusual places.
Fundamentalism is now synonymous with Islamic extremists and radical political movements around the world. This edition uncovers fundamentalism’s American roots and discusses the role religion plays in modern foreign policy.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of a trip that changed the world. On this edition of Common Ground, two former members of Richard Nixon’s team recall the president’s historic trip to China. Plus, a look at the US security and trade alliances with Japan.
Prostitution is a way of life for many in Burkina Faso. In this program, learn how this West African country is trying to ward off an AIDS epidemic. Plus, hear how Burkina Faso is tackling its low literacy rate.
Racism is a problem in almost every corner of the world. In this edition of Common Ground, learn how a simple game of chess can fight racism. Plus, Latvia rediscovers religion after the Cold War.
Afghanistan’s role as the world’s largest heroin exporter dried up during the last months of the Taliban rule. Find out why the drug trade is flourishing once again. Learn more about efforts to restore Afghanistan’s ancient Buddha statues. And hear how the United States is attempting to build a coalition against terrorism in Southeast Asia.
Tragedies tend to bring people together—even if they once were potential enemies. In this program, relatives of Americans killed on September 11 meet with relatives of Afghan civilians killed in US bombing raids.
Domestic issues seem to dominate recent presidential elections, but the war on terrorism may change that. Learn how candidates use foreign policy as a campaign tool. Plus, measuring public opinion about international affairs.