Common Ground Archive

From 1980 to 2004 the Stanley Center produced Common Ground, an award-winning weekly radio program on world affairs.

About Common Ground

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.

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All Shows


President George W. Bush says he supports the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, but Europeans are skeptical about the level of commitment. Learn more about NATO and the Bush administration’s European security policy on this edition of Common Ground.


Population surveys estimate India could surpass China as the world’s most populous nation by the middle of this century. This Common Ground examines how India is addressing the population boom, investing in new technology, and managing the conflict in Kashmir. Plus, an assessment of the United Nations’ global image.


Thirty-six million people worldwide are living with HIV/AIDS. And despite the advancement of modern medicine, the infection rate continues to rise. This Common Ground discusses a new worldwide pledge to tackle the epidemic.


Newly pledged Western aid is providing a glimmer of hope to Serbia and the former Yugoslavia. But after nearly a decade of war and political repression, the region faces a long rebuilding process. This edition of Common Ground visits Belgrade to assess the reconstruction.


New studies indicate global warming is increasing at an alarming rate. The executive director of the United Nations Environment Programme [program] discusses this disturbing trend on this edition of Common Ground. Plus, profiles of human rights heroes.


Nearly 9 percent of all adults in Africa are infected with HIV/AIDS. Despite these epidemic numbers, there is still reason for hope. On this edition of Common Ground, one expert will tell us why. And we’ll hear about a new attempt to bring justice to Rwanda.


A new wave of nationalism is sweeping across Japan thanks, in part, to the unusual style of new Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. This week’s Common Ground uncovers the roots of the nationalism movement and examines why Viagra is more popular than birth control pills in Japan.


Houston, Texas, is famous for its oil wells, rodeos, and barbecue. But Houston is also an international center for trade, technology, and culture. This edition of Common Ground explores the global connections of America’s fourth largest city.


Every year the US government sends billions of dollars in aid to developing countries, and American corporations and organizations give millions more. This Common Ground discusses the trials and tribulations of the development aid process. Plus, Helen Thomas’ view from the “front row” of the White House press briefing room.


Malaysian Prime Minister Mohammad Mahathir is Asia’s longest lasting dictator. Opposition leaders discuss their hopes for success on this Common Ground. Plus, Malaysia’s controversial energy solutions.