PBS Newshour Season 2021 Episode 34 February 17, 2021
- February 17, 2021
On February 17, 2021, PBS Newshour aired its 34th episode of the 2021 season, featuring a range of news stories from around the world. The show began with a report on the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, with host Judy Woodruff discussing the latest developments in the United States and globally. The episode also featured extensive coverage of the aftermath of the winter storm that ravaged Texas and other parts of the southern United States, with correspondents on the ground reporting on the challenges facing residents and the slow process of recovery.
The episode also covered a number of important international stories, including the continuing crisis in Myanmar following the military coup that toppled the country's democratically-elected government. Correspondent Nick Schifrin reported on the difficult situation facing pro-democracy activists in the country, as well as the growing international pressure on the ruling military junta to step down and return power to a civilian government.
Another major international story covered in the episode was the ongoing conflict in Yemen, where a long-standing civil war has been exacerbated by a humanitarian crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic. Correspondent Jane Ferguson reported on the dire situation facing Yemeni civilians, including widespread starvation and a lack of basic medical supplies.
The episode also featured several segments focused on U.S. politics, including a report on the ongoing impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump and a discussion of the Biden administration's efforts to pass a Covid-19 relief bill. Correspondent Lisa Desjardins offered on-the-ground coverage of the impeachment proceedings, while political analysts provided insight into the efforts of Democrats to pass their legislative agenda in a narrowly-divided Congress.
Other segments included a report on the impact of climate change on winter sports, an examination of the decline in bee populations and its potential impact on global food supplies, and a feature on the work of a group of women in rural India who are breaking down gender barriers in the tech industry.
Throughout the episode, viewers were presented with in-depth reporting and analysis on a range of topics, drawing on the expertise of correspondents and analysts from around the world. With a focus on international news as well as U.S. politics and culture, the show provided a comprehensive look at the most pressing issues facing our world today.