Life and war in Yemen - a podcast by BBC Radio 4

Kate Adie introduces correspondents' stories from Yemen, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Turkey and Ireland.

The city of Taiz in southwestern Yemen has survived thousands of days of siege conditions during the conflict between Iranian-backed Houthi forces and the Saudi-led alliance. But there are still civilians trying to find moments of normality in wartime - and some surprising facilities on offer. Orla Guerin met a dermatologist who treats both the war wounded, and customers wanting purely cosmetic procedures.

The summit on the future of the Amazon rainforest, held in the Brazilian state of Para, didn't result in a grand international pact. But it did showcase a new emphasis: on helping the tens millions of people who live in this vast region, as the key to protecting its biodiversity and tree cover. Katy Watson travelled there to hear from local farmers on what can be done to improve their lives.

Zimbabwe's general election is due on the 23rd of August - but there seems little hope for great change through the ballot box. Charlotte Ashton was recently in Harare and found a mood of exhaustion - not least because the creaking economy leaves many people having to juggle several jobs, just to make ends meet.

For centuries, the Turkish city of Antakya was a renowned centre of culture, trade and religion: a cosmopolitan metropolis home to Turks, Arabs, Kurds, Jews and Armenians. But six months ago it was rocked by earthquakes. Lizzie Porter found a place once famous for its historic, honey-coloured buildings now full of dust, smoke, and the noise of demolition.

In Dublin, after years of economic anxiety after the collapse of the 'Celtic Tiger' and the European financial crisis, the Irish government now enjoys a very large budget surplus. Yet many don't feel they're prospering, as Chris Page explains.

Producer: Polly Hope
Editor: Bridget Harney
Production Co-Ordinator: Gemma Ashman

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