World news is a subfield of journalism that covers international events. It differs from domestic news in that it includes international politics, foreign policy and economics rather than local events. World news is generally gathered by a correspondent (journalist stationed abroad full-time) or special envoy (a temporary journalist sent on assignment to a specific area).
While hard news is the main focus of world news, it also includes features, human interest stories and editorial commentary. A common theme is political satire that lampoons current or former government leaders.
For example, WWN published graphic photos of the autopsied body of serial killer Ted Bundy. Managing editor Eddie Clontz defended the decision, claiming that he was trying to deter other murderers.
Other WWN stories were supernatural in nature, including sightings of Elvis Presley, the Loch Ness monster and Bigfoot. The tabloid also reported new findings related to biblical relics, such as sandals worn by Jesus. It also devoted an issue to an interview with Sisyphus, who claimed that natural disasters and human economic activities opened portals into Hell from which demons escape to wreak havoc on Earth.
During its heyday in the late 1990s, WWN reached over 1.2 million subscribers. It ceased print publication in 2007, but was relaunched online by senior editor Greg D’Alessandro and investor David Collins, with the goal of developing it as a reputable news source. The website has since shifted towards articles about health and miracle cures.