World news is a subfield of journalism focused on events outside of the United States and often covers international politics. It may also encompass news from wars or summits of multilateral organizations that affect the United States’ national interest. The term is sometimes used to differentiate it from “national” news, which refers to the coverage of news that pertains directly to a country and its government (and often includes news of military events such as bombings).
Traditionally, many networks have broadcast one or more shows that cover a variety of global affairs. This can include news and analysis programs, such as NBC News Overnight and ABC News World Tonight. Some stations, such as the WCBS-TV in New York City, have also devoted an entire nightly newscast to world events, including live reporting from overseas locations.
In general, the distinction between world news and domestic or local news is somewhat blurred, especially in the United States, where it can be difficult to distinguish between the coverage of a war that is affecting citizens in belligerent countries and the coverage of a natural disaster such as a tsunami or earthquake that has affected people in multiple countries.
In addition to presenting news stories from around the world, World News Now was known for a number of odd features, such as a segment in which anchors checked in with local ABC affiliates and broadcast the opening segments of their late-night newscasts. The program was also an apparent training ground for young news presenters, with several former anchors going on to higher-profile jobs at the network or at local ABC affiliates.