Rob Schmitz is NPR's international correspondent based in Berlin, where he covers the human stories of a vast region reckoning with its past while it tries to guide the world toward a brighter future. From his base in the heart of Europe, Schmitz has covered Germany's levelheaded management of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise of right-wing nationalist politics in Poland and creeping Chinese government influence inside the Czech Republic.
The Senate passed a major immigration enforcement funding bill. Now, the measure goes to the House. Lawmakers must also decide the future of a surveillance program set to expire next week.
Heading back to work after parental leave? Life Kit has some advice on navigating schedules, managing expectations and finding support during a major life transition.