A multisource video news service that highlights nuances in reporting from media outlets around the world.

Hello, I’m Charlotte Bellis and you’re watching Newsy.com.

Anticipation in the United States as President-elect Barack Obama prepares to become the 44th President.

In Washington, D.C., over the weekend, a major event at the Lincoln Memorial. A star-studded celebration and a message....

“...despite the enormity of the task that lies ahead - I stand here today as hopeful as ever that the United States of America will endure - that the dream of our founders will live on in our time.” (France 24)

Let’s take a trip around the world to see how news organizations are covering the final countdown to the inauguration. 

We’ll take snapshots from France 24, Russia Today, China Daily, Spiegel Online International, and others.

France 24 gave a comprehensive overview of yesterday’s events and what’s ahead for the next president...

“It was a highlight in a day that also included laying a wreath at the tomb of the fallen soldier with Vice President-elect Joe Biden. It was a more somber note. A reminder of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan Obama will have to deal with when he takes office on Tuesday. But Washington’s inhabitants were still determined to enjoy the party atmosphere. A once in a lifetime chance to tell your grandkids. We’re big Obama fans so it’s a good moment.”  (France 24)
 
Russia Today also looked at the mix between party atmosphere and the significant challenges ahead.

“...despite the highest unemployment rate in more than 15 years and two costly wars, millions of people are expected at the swearing-in ceremony in Washington D.C.” (Russia Today)

Here’s more from Russia Today.

“...it looks like the economic crisis isn’t going to ruin anyone’s inauguration party. ‘I’m picking up memorabilia for the inauguration and I’m also having a party at my house.’ The U.S. economy may be in decline but if you’re selling Barack Obama paraphernalia, you’re not suffering too much.” (Russia Today)

China Daily focused on Israeli troops pulling out of Gaza – while mentioning Obama’s honoring of Martin Luther King Jr. (China Daily)

In Iran, the Tehran Times took the perspective that Obama has remained silent in response to events in Gaza. (Tehran Times)

German’s Spiegel Online International has a special section called ‘America Has Made Its Choice.’ They focused on a special interview with author Jonathan Alter about the next president. Alter talked about what can be expected and what’s still not known...

“Will Obama make people feel better? We don’t know yet. All presidents are blind dates. The central theme will likely be that we must set aside partisan differences...” (Spiegel Online)

India’s NDTV takes an optimistic view of Obama and the future.

“For all the difficulties he faces, Obama has a clearer shot at greatness than any of his recent predecessors.” (NDTV)

What are your plans for the inauguration – will you take part? Will you watch?  We invite your comments and please check out our sources.