India has passed a controversial bill that seeks to change how transgender people are legally recognised and their right to self-identify. The government says this legislation is meant to protect vulnerable groups from being exploited. But it’s caused protests by opposition parties and members of the LGBTQ community.In this episode the BBC’s Anahita Sachdev, based in Delhi, breaks down everything we need to know about the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act 2026, including how this law could impact India’s ‘third gender’. We also hear from trans-rights activist Don Hasar who shares why some people are worried. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producer: Mora Morrison 
Editor: Harriet Oliver

India has a new trans rights law - and it’s sparked protests

Helping you make sense of what’s happening in your world. Big stories, small stories and everything in between. Understand more, feel better. Five days a week, Monday to Friday.

Four astronauts have travelled further from Earth than anyone ever before. It's part of the Artemis II mission - which saw humans go to the Moon for the first time in over 50 years. You’ve been sending us your questions - and in this episode we put them to two former Nasa astronauts, Steve Swanson and Nicole Stott.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison, Chelsea Coates and Julia Ross-Roy
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Artemis II: We put your questions to Nasa astronauts

The US and Iran have agreed to a conditional two-week ceasefire, hours after President Trump threatened that "a whole civilisation” would die if the Strait of Hormuz did not reopen.Iran has agreed to open the key shipping route while the US stops its strikes— but it’s also put forward a 10-point plan with several other demands, including compensation for the damage caused by the war.Pakistan has been acting as a mediator between the two countries and it will host talks between the US and Iran this Friday - so what can we expect from the negotiations?In this episode we look at the terms of this ceasefire, what it means for the countries involved in the conflict and what could happen next.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

What’s in the Iran ceasefire deal?

There’s a growing trend of young people taking to social media to share their Christian faith with the world. These influencers include Bryce Crawford, Redeemed Zoomer and @BreakingInTheHabit. We chat to Adeline in Australia and IBQuake in Nigeria, who both make Christian content online. We hear why they do it and find out why they think faith-based content is becoming more popular. And Chelsea from the What in the World team explains why we’re seeing more of this content right now. You might have seen some headlines about Gen-Z being the most Christian generation yet - but is it true? We get the facts from Conrad Hackett at Pew Research Center, a US think tank.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison, Chelsea Coates and Julia Ross-Roy
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why Christian influencers are spreading their faith online

Israel has intensified its attacks on Lebanon this week. It’s as the US-Israel war with Iran also continues. A new front in the war opened in Lebanon on 2nd March when the Iran-backed group Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel. This was in retaliation to the death of Iran’s supreme leader and ceasefire violations. More than a million people in Lebanon - roughly one in every six - have been displaced from their homes. And more than 1,400 people have been killed. We chat to the BBC's Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega, who’s based in Beirut. He walks us through what’s happening in Lebanon, the background to Hezbollah, and when the war might come to an end. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison, Julia Ross-Roy and Benita Barden
Editor: Harriet Oliver

What’s behind the fighting in Lebanon?

Lebanon, Kenya and Jamaica are among the handful of countries that have gotten rid of the ‘period tax’ - the additional charge the government adds to the retail price of sanitary products like pads or tampons. Now, a new campaign has started to scrap the tax in Pakistan. According to UNICEF, the tax can add up to 40% to the retail price of sanitary pads in the country, making them out of reach for many women and girls, especially in impoverished communities.Mahnoor Omer, the 25-year-old lawyer from Pakistan who has started a legal case to cut the tax, talks us through attitudes to periods in her home country and explains why this campaign is so important to her. And we hear from young women in Pakistan who tell us what they think of the tax.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producer: Chelsea Coates and Julia Ross-Roy
Editor: Harriet Oliver

The campaign to scrap period tax in Pakistan

From boosting muscle mass to improving metabolism and skin, there’s now tonnes of claims about what peptides can do on social media. Peptides are short amino acids produced by our bodies naturally, and they aren’t a new concept, they’ve been used in medicine for centuries, Insulin, used to treat diabetes being the most common one.But the peptide wellness shot craze has led to growing amount of people buying ‘research peptides’ which are unregulated and not approved for human use. BBC’s health and wellbeing reporter, Ruth Clegg tells us all about the grey market of research peptide drugs, the health risks of taking them and why people are opting to become peptide ‘lab-rats’ despite this.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler, Benita Barden and Mora Morrison
Editor: Verity Wilde

How unregulated peptides became the latest health trend

For the first time in more than 50 years, NASA is taking humanity back to the moon with its Artemis II mission. The crew is made up of four astronauts, including the first woman astronaut and the first black astronaut to travel to the moon. They will blast off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, in a spacecraft never used by humans before, and begin their journey to orbit around the moon. The launch is expected to happen on 1 April - but NASA are keeping their options open, and have named six other potential dates. So - when will the launch take place? And once it does, how long will it take the mission to reach the Moon? The BBC’s science correspondent Georgina Rannard unpacks it all for us — and tells us everything we need to know about this historic mission. And we hear from two members of the Cosmic Girls Foundation - Vanessa from Finland and Ximena from Venezuela - who share their reaction to the mission and their hopes for how it could push the boundaries of science.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Artemis II: How long will it take to get to the moon?

Imagine being able to understand what animals are saying - and potentially even talking back. Animal-to-human communication is a subject which has garnered a lot of attention in recent years. And now artificial intelligence (AI) is turbo charging the conversation. The BBC’s Caroline Steel chats us through the basics of animal communication, how technological advancements have helped humans understand them, and what the next phase of this could look like. David Gruber from Project CETI also shares his team’s pioneering efforts to understand sperm whales. Plus, vet Haehyun Shin shares how her work would be impacted if she could understand her pet patients. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison and Chelsea Coates 
Video producer: Tim Hodges
Editor: Verity Wilde

Can we talk to animals?

The United Nations has voted to recognise the transatlantic slave trade as the “gravest crime against humanity”, after a proposal from Ghana. It comes after years of campaigning from African and Caribbean nations, calling for reparations for the largest long-distance forced movement of people in recorded history.But not all governments supported the vote. The US, Israel and Argentina voted against it and 52 countries - mostly members of the EU - decided not to take part. The wording of the resolution has received criticism, with some arguing it implies that some crimes against humanity are worse than others.So what does this vote mean - and how could it change the way we look at this chapter of history in the future?BBC Africa reporter Daniel Dadzie joins us for this episode to explain it all - along with two students based in Accra, Malisecullen and Abena. We also hear from Meghan in the US, who shares her thoughts on her country rejecting the vote.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison, William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

The UN recognises slave trade as ‘gravest crime’: What now?

A 20 year old woman in the US has successfully sued Meta and YouTube over her childhood addiction to social media, winning $6million in damages. Jurors found that Meta, which owns Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp, and Google, owner of YouTube, intentionally built addictive social media platforms that harmed her mental health.This result is likely to have implications for hundreds of similar cases now winding their way through US courts. Meta and Google said they disagreed with the verdict and intended to appeal.In this episode BBC tech correspondent Joe Tidy explains the arguments made in the trial and whether this decision could lead to any changes in the way they work. And we hear your views on whether you think these apps are addictive and what you make of the ruling.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Benita Barden, William Lee Adams and Julia Ross-Roy
Editor: Verity Wilde

The verdict’s in…is social media about to change forever?

Ryan Reynolds and Wrexham, Michael B Jordan and AFC Bournemouth, Snoop Dogg and Swansea City FC. And now YouTuber KSI and Dagenham and Redbridge. There’s a growing list of celebrities investing in lower league English and Welsh football clubs. But is this a good thing for the clubs? And how much influence do these celebs actually have? Emma Middleton from BBC Sport explains. We also hear from some fans around the world. It’s not just English and Welsh football. Celebrities are also buying into American football teams, Formula One and cricket with the Indian Premier League. Journalist Janhavee Moole tells us about the situation in India. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Benita Barden, Chelsea Coates and Julia Ross-Roy
Video producer: Tim Hodges
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why are celebrities like KSI buying football clubs?

The war in Iran isn't just affecting people in countries directly involved in the conflict. It has driven up oil prices around the world, impacting the lives of people from the Philippines and India to Nigeria. Nick Marsh, our Asia business correspondent, explains how some governments are reacting.Plus we hear from Azadeh Moshiri, our correspondent in Dubai. She explains how Iran’s strikes on the UAE have impacted its reputation.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams and Ash Mohamed 
Editor: Julia Ross-Roy

How the Iran war is impacting other places like Dubai

South Africa is facing a water crisis. South Africa is one of the driest countries in the world. It relies on its rainwater, levels of which are unpredictable, unevenly distributed, and decreasing as a result of global warming. But the main issue contributing to water shortages is ageing infrastructure; rusting pipes that break and leak. And there are also allegations of theft by “water tanker mafias”. The BBC’s Mayeni Jones has been to a part of South Africa that’s been badly affected by droughts and water shortages to investigate these groups. She explains how they operate and what the government is doing to try to tackle the water mafia. And we hear from young South Africans who are affected by the water shortages. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler, Mora Morrison, Chelsea Coates and Ash Mohamed
Video producer: Tim Hodges
Editor: Verity Wilde

How gangs are taking advantage of South Africa’s water crisis

BTS are back! It’s the first time all seven members have been together since completing mandatory military service in South Korea. They’ve returned with a 14-track album titled Arirang and an 82-date world tour. Fans in South Korea were treated with the opportunity to see them for free in a huge opening night show in Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. BBC Korean’s Yuna Ku tells us what it was like be at the comeback show. Plus we hear from those who watched the concert on Netflix from across the globe. Music journalists Clint Edwards and Chase Karng also give us their first impressions of Arirang. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams, Julia Ross-Roy and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

BTS mark comeback with Arirang album and historic concert

The White House is stepping up their social media promotion on the war in Iran... with memes. Clips from the NFL, Spongebob Squarepants and Call of Duty have all been spliced together with scenes military strike footage from the Iran war, racking up millions of views on TikTok. President Trump’s team say it’s a modern way to get their message across to young audiences and show their military successes, but the comments show that not everyone agrees, and some argue that it trivialises the human cost of war.Anthony Zurcher, the BBC’s North America correspondent, explains it all - and tells us how this compares to the tactics previous US governments have used to depict conflicts. And social psychology Professor Sander van der Linden, who’s from Cambridge University, tells us how these hype videos can affect our perception of the war.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler, Chelsea Coates and Mora Morrison
Editors: Verity Wilde

How the White House is using hype videos to sell the Iran war

Looksmaxxing has been all over the internet lately - this is the trend aimed at young men and it’s based on the idea of self-improvement, maximising your physical attractiveness and increasing your sexual market value. It's been part of fringe reddit forums for years now but recently it’s become mainstream, with the hashtag going viral on TikTok, X and Instagram.The trend promotes extreme dieting, obsessive body ranking and pseudo-scientific cosmetic advice - including a recent "bonesmashing" trend which has been condemned by doctors. And it has links to incel and manosphere networks. BBC journalist Thomas Morgan explains looksmaxxing and why it’s become popular with young men, as well as some of the real life consequences. We speak to 22 year old actor Trevor Larcom about his own looksmaxxing journey and find out what he makes of the accusations of misogyny and toxic culture. And Stephen Imeh, who wanted to become the “first black looksmaxxer”, tells us about his experience. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison, Emilia Jansson and Julia Ross-Roy
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal 
Editor: Verity Wilde and Harriet Oliver

Looksmaxxing: Why men are going to extremes to look good

Senegal has been stripped of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title. Senegal beat Morocco 1-0 in January's final but Caf (the Confederation of African Football) has changed the result. It’s because Senegal's players walked off the pitch in protest when Morocco was given a penalty.We LOVE a bit of drama on What in the World and this truly feels like something out of our fave reality TV shows (think Big Brother, Traitors and America’s Next Top Model). Isaac Fanin, the guy with all the sports intel, was there on the night it happened and takes us through it - how are Africans feeling and what’s next? Will the Senegalese have to give up their medals?!Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Mora Morrison 
Editors: Verity Wilde and Harriet Oliver

Wait, I thought Senegal won Afcon, now it’s Morocco?!

LED technology has been used to address a number of skin issues, such as eczema, mild to moderate acne and psoriasis in a medical setting. But now you can buy your own LED mask or device for use at home. Adverts are everywhere on social media, with lots of influencers promoting them. Mask developers make big claims that at-home LED masks can be used to treat acne scars, sun damage and fine lines - but what does the evidence show? BBC journalist Imogen James explains the trend and takes us through how and if these at-home LED masks work. Rio Rennalls from the What in the World team tells us why he uses one. Some dermatologists and experts have raised concerns about the efficacy of these masks. David Robert Grimes, a scientist and author in Ireland, gives us his views on the technology. And we hear from dermatologist Dr. Montserrat Fernández-Guarino.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy, Benita Barden and William Lee Adams
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal 
Editors: Verity Wilde and Harriet Oliver

Do LED skincare masks work?

The 2026 Oscars are over, the red carpet has been rolled up and celebrities are polishing their golden awards at home in the quiet.The big winner of the night was political thriller One Battle After Another, which took home six wins including best picture. Other winners included Sinners star Michael B Jordan, who beat Timothée Chalamet to the best actor award, and Irish actress Jessie Buckley for her role in Hamnet. We’re sad the 98th Academy Awards are finished for another year, so we’re gonna dish out our own awards. Think ‘biggest flop’, ‘best roast’ and ‘woman of the year’.BBC Entertainment Reporter, Yasmin Rufo, announces our (not so) prestigious awards and gives us her ‘ins and outs’ for next year’s Oscars ceremony.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden
Editor: Harriet Oliver

Our Oscars 2026 faves and flops

The US and Israel first launched strikes on Iran two weeks ago. In response, Iran has launched more than 2,000 drones at targets across the Middle East, towards Israel and Gulf countries with US military bases. We’ve seen attacks on oil tankers, airports, and even luxury hotels and banks.The drones are causing considerable damage across the region considering they have a simple design and are relatively cheap to produce. The Shahed 136 long-range drone, which is manufactured in Iran, is estimated to cost between $20,000 to $50,000. Iran is thought to have mass-produced tens of thousands of the Shahed drones before the war, but we don’t know how much of that stockpile remains intact after days of US and Israeli strikes.The BBC’s Bernd Debusmann Jr explains why Iran is using these drones and why they are expensive to counter. We look to Ukraine, which has developed its own cheap drones to down Russian ones. And we discuss how Iran’s stockpiles of these drones could play a big factor in how long the war lasts. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

Drone warfare between Iran and the US

Timothée Chalamet has come for ballet and opera. In an interview with Matthew McConaughey ahead of the Oscars he said… “I don’t want to be working in ballet or opera or things where it’s like, ‘Hey, keep this thing alive even though it’s like, no one cares about this anymore.’” And, well, it turns out he was wrong, because lots and lots of people have been defending the industries with tons of passion. And it did get us thinking - how do ballet and opera sales compare to how they have done in the past? Do many people watch them? What are people in the industry, like Misty Copeland, doing to get more people into theatres? We get into it with Chelsea from the What in the World team (she’s also a ballet dancer, but sadly has never made it to a professional stage). And we hear from people who love ballet and opera, including two professional ballet dancers for The Australian Ballet and The National Ballet of Canada.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler, Chelsea Coates and Ash Mohamed
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal 
Editor: Verity Wilde

Hey Timothée Chalamet, we do care about ballet and opera!

Last week, during their opening match of the AFC Asia Cup football tournament, Iran’s women’s football team refused to sing the national anthem. The move was seen as an act of defiance, as it came shortly after American and Israeli strikes had killed Iran’s supreme leader. The players were subsequently called “wartime traitors” on Iranian state television.After being knocked out of the tournament on Sunday, several players decided to stay in Australia. Despite heavy surveillance from Iranian authorities, they escaped their hotel and were issued humanitarian visas by the Australian government. BBC Persian reporter Ghoncheh Habibiazad explains why the players took this action and the consequences the decision may have for them and their families. We also find out more about the significance of football to Iran’s leaders. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why some Iranian footballers have stayed in Australia

Military-style weight loss camps in China are getting popular. You sign up voluntarily for a month and follow a strict daily routine, with intense exercises, mandatory trips to the scales and rules on snacking. Some people have called them “fat prisons”. So what’s it like to go to one? TL Huang from Australia tells us about her experience. We hear about the downsides of these kinds of “fat camps” from British nutritionist and personal trainer Luke Hanna. And Wanqing Zhang from the BBC’s Global China Unit explains why more people in China are signing up to them.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison, Chelsea Coates and Julia Ross-Roy
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal 
Editor: Verity Wilde

China’s extreme weight loss camps

Iran’s state media has announced that Mojtaba Khamenei will be the country’s new supreme leader. He’ll replace his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a joint American and Israeli strike last week. The 56-year-old has largely kept a low profile. He has never held government office and only a limited number of photos and videos of him have ever been published.In this episode, you’ll hear what we know about Iran’s new supreme leader, and what this change in leadership could mean for the future of the war between Iran, Israel and the US.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

Who is Iran’s new supreme leader?

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow gap of water in the Middle East between Iran and the Arabian peninsula. About 3,000 or so ships sail through the Strait each month - that’s about 80 ships a day. About 20% of the world’s oil and gas passes through it. But now, it’s an active war zone. As the US and Israel continue strikes on Iran, and Iran launches missiles at Israel and nearby Gulf states in retaliation, key shipping routes are being disrupted as well as oil and gas production in the region.Iran says it has complete control of the Strait of Hormuz, and that it would "set fire" to any ships trying to pass through it. In this episode we explain how this war could affect the wider world and why closing the Strait of Hormuz could lead to higher prices for petrol, food and electronics for us all. Kayleen Devlin from BBC Verify tells us what’s happening to ships in the Strait of Hormuz and BBC business reporter Nick Marsh describes why parts of Asia are already feeling the effects. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy, Maria Clara Montoya and Ash Mohamed
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why the Strait of Hormuz matters to us all

Wild bee species at risk of extinction in Europe have more than doubled in the last decade. And that matters more than you might think.Bees pollinate 75% of the crops we eat, from apples and tomatoes to carrots and raspberries. So if bee populations decline, our food system feels it too. So what’s actually driving the drop in wild bees? BBC climate &#38; science correspondent Georgina Rannard breaks it down for us. We also hear from a beekeeper in Sierra Leone about protecting bees on the ground – and what simple changes could help them thrive closer to home.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Baldeep Chahal, Chelsea Coates, Emily Horler
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal 
Editor: Verity WildeAudio for this episode was updated on 30 March 2026.

Why humans rely on bees

The conflict between Israel and the US against Iran continues to escalate. At least one thousand civilians have been killed in Iran since the US-Israeli attacks began on Saturday, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency. There is uncertainty about what happens next. As Iran enters its fifth day into the conflict, how do Iranians feel about it? Ghoncheh Habibiazad, who is a journalist for the BBC Persian Service, tells us how people who she’s spoken to in Iran are feeling. And we hear from Iranians outside the country for their hopes for Iran.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler, Chelsea Coates and Maria Clara Montoya 
Editor: Verity Wilde

Iran: How are Iranians feeling?

For centuries, people have lived side by side with animals in harmony. But with habitats shrinking, animals such as lions and elephants are having to travel further to find food, sometimes stumbling into human territory. Crops and property are destroyed as farmers lose their livelihoods. And when their path crosses with humans it can get violent - even leading to death. As humans are killed by the animals, their communities go out to get revenge on the species.The BBC’s reporter Shingai Nyoka in Zimbabwe tells us about the situation in her country, and what governments across Africa are doing to ensure communities can live in harmony with the animals. Plus, we hear from WWF, an independent conservation organisation, and find out how it is dealing with human-wildlife conflict in Tanzania. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler, Benita Barden and Emilia Jansson
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal 
Editor: Verity Wilde

Human-wildlife conflict: How to deal with animals killing humans

The US and Israel have launched a massive military operation in Iran, carrying out a series of strikes that have killed the country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as well as hundreds of Iranians. Iran has also launched strikes in response, targeting Israel, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and other countries and killing several civilians - and American military personnel - in the process.In this episode we answer some of your most searched questions on this developing conflict - including why the US and Israel have attacked Iran, who Iran has attacked in response, whether petrol prices will go up and how long this conflict could last.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Harriet Oliver

Iran: What we know so far

Emperor penguins are icons of the penguin world. They are only found in the wild in Antarctica and breed and raise their babies on the ice. Because the Antarctic is so massive and difficult to explore, scientists rely on satellite images to detect colonies and the penguins’ activities.Once a year penguins shed all their feathers on the ice and replace them with new ones. The feathers they leave behind can also be seen on satellites - but now scientists are worried. Recently they haven’t seen much evidence of this “mega moult”. BBC climate and science correspondent Georgina Rannard explains what this could mean for the Emperor penguin populations. And finally, Ash from the What in the World team brings a few more animal stories she’s spotted this week, including an update on viral sensation Punch the Monkey, in Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy, William Lee Adams and Ash Mohamed
Editor: Verity Wilde

The case of the missing Emperor penguins

Vogue and Business Insider have declared 2026 the ‘year of the cabbage’. The vegetable has gone viral amid the rise of ‘fibremaxxing’ - with young people posting reels praising it for its versatility and trying to glamourise it with healthy gourmet-style meals. So, why has the humble vegetable had a rebrand? And what does it tell us about Gen Z finances? BBC reporter Basma El-Atti explains the trend - and tells us about the fibre gap. And Zara Hiridjee, a nutritionist in the UK explains how much fibre we need, whether you can have too much and the different types of fibre you need in your diet. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Benita Barden, Chelsea Coates and Emilia Jansson 
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal 
Editor: Verity Wilde

Fibremaxxing: Why are we now obsessed with cabbage?

On Sunday Mexican security forces killed El Mencho, one of the country’s most wanted drug lords and the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). In response, members of the feared cartel have unleashed a wave of violence across 20 Mexican states.Jack Burgess, a BBC reporter who covers international affairs, explains what’s been happening. And Laura Garcia, a BBC reporter from Mexico, explains how cartels recruit young people and how everyday Mexicans have had to adapt to the threat of cartel violence. The uptick in violence comes as Mexico prepares to host the World Cup, alongside the U.S. and Canada, between 11 June and 19 July. BBC Sport reporter Daniel Austin tells us how fans have been reacting and what it might mean for the football tournament.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

How does cartel violence impact young people in Mexico?

The gig economy is booming. This is where people get paid per job - and use an app to get their work. Most commonly it’s used for food delivery and taxis. India's gig workforce is 12 million strong and expected to double to 24 million by 2030. But recently thousands of gig workers in Delhi led massive protests over their pay and working conditions. They were also upset about the pressures of having to deliver products within 10 minutes - a guarantee some companies had initiated to try to get an edge in a very competitive market. Meghna Kanwar, a Brut journalist in India, explains some of their complaints - and how the government and companies responded. And it’s not just India; there have been gig worker protests all over the world in the last few years, including in the US, UK, Brazil, South Africa, China and Indonesia. Nathalia Jimenez, our BBC business reporter in New York, tells us what some of them were about - and whether they made a difference. We also hear from Mu'nisah Ujima, a food delivery driver in Atlanta, USA, on some of the upsides and downsides she experiences. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Julia Ross Roy, Benita Barden, Ash Mohamed and Chelsea Coates
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why are gig workers in India protesting?

The Winter Olympics are over and aren’t back until 2030. Some of the athletic highlights include the first Winter Olympic gold medal won by a South American nation, thanks to Brazil's Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, and also American figure skater Alysa Liu’s comeback. But then there’s some more dramatic moments like the public confessions of cheating and a condom shortage… William and Chelsea from the What in the World team tell us their Winter Olympics highlights.And we speak to BBC sports reporters Sarah Mulkerrins and Emma Smith, who’ve been following the games in Italy to get a good debrief of it all.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams, Chelsea Coates and Benita Barden
Editor: Emily Horler

Winter Olympics 2026: What you missed

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor - formerly known as Prince Andrew - has now been released under investigation, after he was arrested on Thursday (on his birthday!) on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Police are looking into allegations that the former prince shared official documents with the late American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Police have been searching his properties, but this arrest is not related to any sexual offences and Andrew has always denied all wrongdoing. It’s still a significant moment, as the first time in modern history that a senior member of the British Royal Family has been arrested. His brother, King Charles, has said in a statement, “the law must take its course”.In this episode, we explain what Andrew is being investigated for, what it might mean for the future of the British Royal Family - and the effect it could have on the ongoing calls for accountability for people with links to Epstein.We also have two past episodes you might want to listen to. One where we explain why why Andrew was stripped of his title: The Andrew Formerly Known as Prince
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct73mj And another all about the final drop of the Epstein files: Who and what are in the Epstein files
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct73y0Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

How big a deal is Andrew being arrested?

What’s going on with the price of gold? The precious yellow metal is super important to lots of cultures across the world. In China, its a big part of the Lunar New Year, while in India, gold gifts are linked to marriage traditions. And of course - most of us have dreams of getting our hands on some gold jewellery!So in this episode, William Lee Adams, from the What in the World team and former host of Marketplace Morning Report, will give us all the deets on those rising rates. We’ll chat the changing value of gold, spot price vs bullion, what’s behind it and why you should care. Plus, Anahita Sachdev, a reporter in the US, takes us through India’s relationship with gold.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler, Benita Barden and Emilia Jansson
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why is the gold price so high right now?!

We’re talking about Lunar New Year - it’s the year of the fire horse and it’s the first time this particular combination of Chinese zodiac sign and element has rolled around in 60 years, and the hype is real.The story, myth and legend of the animals of the Chinese New Year calendar comes from an ancient Chinese poem telling the story of 12 mythical animals who ended up racing each other to decide which order they would appear in the Chinese zodiac. We’re gonna get into how the Lunar New Year is celebrated across the world, hear from some BBC pals about how they’re celebrating and also from some of you guys about your traditions and why this year is special. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

It’s the year of the Fire Horse!

We’ve spotted some of you on your socials talking about eldest sibling vs youngest sibling behaviour. It got us wondering if when you’re born can affect personality, relationships and outlook on life. We all know the stereotypes; the eldest child is more conscientious and responsible. The middle child gets overlooked and craves attention. The youngest is indulged and a risk-taker. Personality psychologist Julia Rohrer, from Leipzig University in Germany breaks down what’s science and what’s fiction.We hear the experiences from three of our BBC pals; Faith Oshoko in Nigeria, Santiago Vanegas Maldonado from Colombia and Jacob Evans in the UK.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq (eldest)
Producers: Julia Ross Roy (only child), Benita Barden (middle) and Mora Morrison (youngest)
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal (youngest)
Editor: Verity Wilde (eldest)

Does birth order shape your personality?

President Trump isn’t a big believer in climate change - he’s called it a ‘hoax’ and ‘con job’ in the past. But last week saw one of his boldest moves against US climate policy since becoming president - the termination of the endangerment finding. It’s a ruling that was made in 2009, when Barack Obama was in the White House, and it’s served as the legal basis for lots of other regulations aiming to cut pollution since then. So, it looks like Trump is locked in a showdown with climate policy… but what could this hold for the future?In this episode, we explain exactly what the ruling is, why Trump has decided to revoke it, and what this could mean for you.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Trump vs Climate: The Showdown

“Wuthering Heights” is back and so is Bridgerton. Period dramas are having a moment. Why are we loving them so much right now? We hear from fans around the world; Tasha in Canada, Gracie in the US and Radhika in India. Chelsea from the What in the World team explains some of the reasons, like wanting more slow burn romance and courtship in our modern dating, and more accountability when it comes to ghosting. Faye Woods from the University of Reading in the UK tells us how female representation plays a role too. We also discuss whether some of the relationships in these period dramas should be something we aspire to… Heathcliff and Cathy we’re looking at you. Happy Galentine’s Day to all our listeners!Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Chelsea Coates, Julia Ross Roy, and Ash Mohamed
Editor: Verity Wilde

What the popularity of period dramas says about modern dating

As usual, we have been spending far too much time on social media, watching endless videos and scrolling for days.One thing that keeps on coming up is people talking about ‘Chinamaxxing’. This all about Gen Z celebrating and recognising their Chinese technology and Chinese brands…and then choosing to use more of these Chinese-made products than they have before. But it’s going further than that. It’s now a trend to embody a supposed ‘Chinese’ lifestyle. We chat with Shawn Yuan from our Global China Unit and BBC reporter Nathalie Jimenez to hear about how this trend is going down with the Chinese community around the world. Plus two content creators share their thoughts with us - Chao Ban and Yunyun Gu.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler, Julia Ross Roy, Chelsea Coates and Emilia Jansson
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Chinamaxxing: How ‘being Chinese’ became cool online

A landmark trial is underway in California that examines the mental health effects of Instagram and YouTube. Lawyers for the plaintiff, referred to as K.G.M., will argue that she suffered from mental health issues as a result of social media addiction. Her team claims that the named social media companies deliberately built “addiction machines” that use the algorithm to keep young people hooked. K.G.M.’s lawyers also argue that Meta and YouTube failed to warn of the dangers to young users posed by the design of their platforms. Instagram and YouTube deny the allegations and argue that they can’t be held liable for users’ behaviour. Lily Jamali, the BBC’s North America Technology correspondent, is in Los Angeles for the case. She explains the arguments on both sides, previews who we will hear from and discusses the potential implications.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams, Benita Barden and Ash Mohamed
Editor: Verity Wilde

Are Instagram and YouTube 'addiction machines'?

On February 16 Netflix will release “Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model” — a three-part series on the controversial modelling competition. Tyra Banks, the supermodel who hosted the show, features prominently in the ANTM documentary, along with former judges and coaches Jay Manuel, Nigel Barker and Miss J. We look at why Tyra might want to offer her own take on past controversies. Melania Trump, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé and Billie Eilish are among other celebrities who feature in documentaries, docu-series or concert films. But why are these celebrity docs so popular — and what’s the business motivation behind them? BBC reporter William Lee Adams joins us to explain.We also discuss “Melania,” which follows First Lady of the United States Melania Trump during the twenty days leading up to President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January 2025. During the film she discusses her background as an immigrant from Slovenia and the painful loss of her mother Amalija Knavs. The film also captures intimate moments within the Trump family, helping showcase the president as a person rather than a politician. We assess whether the sympathetic portrayal will change opinions in a divided America.And what about music stars? We look at how concert films — Beyoncé’s “Renaissance: The Film,” Billie Eilish’s “Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour” and Taylor Swift’s “The Eras Tour” — can help singers mythologise themselves while also bringing in a lot of revenue. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams, Emily Horler and Mora Morrison 
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

From Tyra Banks to Melania Trump: Are celebrity documentaries just PR?

Bad Bunny made history on Sunday as the first artist to perform almost entirely in Spanish at the Super Bowl. The performance has been interpreted as a love letter to his native Puerto Rico and featured plenty of references to the island and Latin culture more broadly. But the performance, which included a special appearance from Lady Gaga, has also sparked controversy, political backlash and a lot of debate.BBC Sport reporter Sam Harris joins us from San Francisco immediately after the football game between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. He explains why people thought Bad Bunny might use the Super Bowl stage to make a political statement and how his message of unity resonated with the audience. We also discuss President Trump’s criticism of the halftime show. And we hear about a rival halftime show, organised by the conservative group Turning Point USA and headlined by Kid Rock. Bad Bunny fans from around the world also share their verdict on his performance. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams, Chelsea Coates and Ash Mohamed
Editor: Verity Wilde

Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show

The Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are officially on, and they’re already causing a media storm. We’re looking forward to the nostalgia-filled 1990s figure skating routines. Lows include a failed cyber attack and allegations of penis injections in the ski jump. More than 90 countries are competing on snow and ice for the next 19 days, so BBC Sport’s Emma Smith, who’s in Milan for the action, tells us what to look out for.We go find out more about two events; curling with Emma Middleton from BBC Sport and skating with Verity Wilde, What in the World’s very own figure skating enthusiast (and our boss!).Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy and Benita Barden 
Editor: Verity Wilde

Your guide to the Winter Olympics 2026

Can AI make better art, literature and music than humans? What will the future of AI and creativity look like? And how do we even define creativity? These are some of the big questions swirling around right now. And it’s something that we discuss a lot on the team. Some people argue that AI is becoming integral to the future of art; making the process more streamlined and time effective. Many creatives also use tools such as ChatGPT to generate ideas. But not everyone is a fan. Some creatives argue AI will never be able to capture human emotions, for example in poetry. Others worry about copyright and the impact on job security. To get to the bottom of this we spoke with three creatives to hear their views: Nigerian poet Ridwan Fasasi, British music producer Manon Dave, who’s worked with Idris Elba &#38; Will.i.am, and Veda Lee, an illustrator based in Hong Kong. Manon is also the Head of Future World Design in the BBC’s Research and Development department. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison, Rio Rennalls and Chelsea Coates 
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Humans vs AI: Who’s more creative?

We’re talking about the final release of the Epstein files today. Three million pages, 180,000 images and 2,000 videos were posted by the US Justice Department last week. Apparently, if you piled them on top of each other, it would be twice as high as the Eiffel Tower! It can all get a bit overwhelming about what and who exactly is in them. But that’s what we’re gonna explain in this episode.Some of the names include: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Donald Trump, Bill Gates and Bill Clinton. Being named in the documents does not mean you’re guilty of any wrongdoing and those named have denied any knowledge of what Jeffrey Epstein was doing.To get more background, listen to our episode on Epstein from before the files were released: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct73xnInstagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Who and what are in the Epstein files?

Videos of strangers offering parental love are gaining traction in China. POV videos of parents doing everyday things - like telling you to wrap up when it’s cold outside or reminding you not to skip meals - are racking up millions of views. Fans leave lots of comments sending love to their digital mums and dads, but lots of the most popular accounts weren’t originally set up for this purpose. So - why are they so popular?The BBC’s Eunice Yang, who’s based in Hong Kong, joins us to explain what’s behind the trend - and what it could have to do with China’s former One Child Policy. Assistant professor Ting Guo from the University of Toronto unpacks this too. Plus, we hear from a fan of these internet parent videos, who tell us what the content means to them. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison and Chelsea Coates
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why people in China are seeking parental love from strangers

It’s the biggest night in the music industry calendar… every year musicians from all over the world flock to the Grammys in the hopes of picking up an award. But this year, the ceremony is also hitting headlines for the speeches and not just the wins. Bad Bunny and Billie Eilish both called out ICE - Immigration and Customs Enforcement - in their speeches. And off-stage, Justin Bieber and Kehlani attended the ceremony wearing ‘ICE OUT’ badges.Chelsea Coates and Emily Horler from the What in the World team take you inside their group chat to break down the political statements, the fashion statements (hey there Chappell Roan and Heidi Klum!) and all the highlights from the night.Plus, Yuna Ku, our reporter in Seoul, tells us about that K-Pop Demon Hunters win. It's gonna be golden baby!Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Grammys: Chappell Roan stuns and Bad Bunny calls out ICE

For weeks, President Donald Trump has been threatening to attack Iran and he’s sent what he called an ‘armada’ of combat ships and fighter jets to the region. He’s mentioned two main reasons for the military build-up there: Iran’s nuclear programme and the killing of protesters in the country.International news organisations are often refused visas to report from inside Iran, so it’s difficult to know exactly how many protesters were killed, but some human rights groups say it could be more than 6,000 people.In this episode we answer some of your most commonly-searched questions; why is the US threatening to attack Iran, why doesn't President Trump want Iran to have nuclear weapons and what could happen if conflict broke out?Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Harriet Oliver

Is the US going to attack Iran?

Bhajan clubbing is India’s latest cultural trend. People across the country are swarming to bhajan concerts. Instead of club music and vodka shots, they’re enjoying devotional music, chanting and chai. But it’s still high energy with lots of production, like lasers. Many have praised the events for offering a wholesome alternative to traditional clubbing and a nice way to connect with like-minded people. Lots use the opportunity to get dressed-up in their best traditional glitz too. And even Prime Minister Narendra Modi has phrased the movement saying: ‘Our Gen-Z is taking to bhajan Clubbing... it is spirituality and modernity merging beautifully, particularly keeping in mind the sanctity of the bhajans’. So what’s it like at a bhajan club? We’re joined by two friends Pari and Muskan who have attended an event in Delhi. They share why they loved it so much.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams, Mora Morrison and Julia Ross-Roy
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why young Indians are ditching clubbing for devotional concerts

For some of us, measles might sound like a childhood disease from the past that our grandparents worried about. But it can have a severe effect on your health if you catch it as an adult and in some regions, infections are rising. Indonesia, Pakistan and South Africa have all dealt with recent outbreaks. And in the countries like US - that were previously recognised as having eliminated the disease - there’s been a rise in cases as well. So - why is the virus on the rise and what does vaccine hesitancy have to do with it?BBC Health reporter Nick Triggle explains what the virus is, where it’s most prevalent and why we’re seeing a downturn in vaccination rates in some regions. Canada lost its measles elimination status late last year - Nadine Yousif, a BBC reporter in Toronto, explains how anti-vax content on social media may have contributed to this.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why is measles on the rise?

Nonstop notifications, exam stress, the fear of being left behind. These are just some of the things which can increase our anxiety levels. We’ve all been there. Stress is something most of us experience. But sometimes that stress can tip over into feeling overwhelmed or even burnout. So - what can you do about it?BBC presenter and psychologist Claudia Hammond has just written a book all about overwhelm. She breaks down the data on stress, explains what triggers it and gives us her tips on how to deal with it when it all gets too much. And we hear from listeners across the world who share what’s overwhelming them right now - from social media to exams - and get some advice from Claudia on how they can feel less stressed.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Mora Morrison, Chelsea Coates, Adam Chowdhury and Natalia Makohon
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal 
Editor: Julia Ross-Roy

Why are we all so stressed?

Protesters have taken to the streets and tensions are running high in the city of Minneapolis in the US, after ICE agents shot and killed a 37-year-old man named Alex Pretti on Saturday. This comes just weeks after another ICE agent shot and killed US citizen Renee Nicole Good in the same city.Kristi Noem, the head of the US Department of Homeland Security, accused both Alex and Renee of ‘domestic terrorism’. But some lawmakers - and protesters - have said the killings raise concerns about ICE’s operations across the country.BBC journalist Kayla Epstein, who’s based in New York, joins us to explain how much power ICE has, why they’re being deployed and why some people say they’re controversial. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams, Julia Ross-Roy and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

ICE explained: What powers do its agents have?

Donald Trump can’t stop talking about Greenland. He spent a big chunk of his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos talking about the island, saying he wouldn’t use force but threatening consequences if it wasn’t handed over. Later that day, he said discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte had been fruitful, but Denmark and Greenland said only they can negotiate with the US over Greenland. We break down why exactly Donald Trump is paying so much attention to this Arctic island and what that might mean for the rest of the world.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Emilia Jansson
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why does Donald Trump want Greenland?

Do you know there could be chemicals in your clothes, food packaging and even your make-up which can take hundreds or even thousands of years to break down?They’re called PFAS - or “forever chemicals” - and they are everywhere. They're in our drinking water, at harmful levels in some areas, and they’re inside our bodies, our brains and our blood. They’ve been found on the top of Mount Everest, too. BBC climate and science reporter Esme Stallard explains what these chemicals are and how they get into our bodies. Stephanie Metzger from the Royal Society of Chemistry in the UK tells us the effect they can have on our health. And podcast host Robin Laird tells us what she does to try to avoid PFAS.France has just brought in a ban on cosmetics and clothing that contain these chemicals - they can’t be produced, imported or sold there now. We hear about the steps some countries are taking to try to limit their use. Gittemarie Johansen, a Danish environmental and sustainability advocate, gives us her view on what governments and manufacturers should do. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Chelsea Coates and Julia Ross-Roy
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

The 'forever chemicals' lurking in our water and clothes

One of the biggest internet personalities in the world, IShowSpeed has gone viral countless times for his ‘irl’ streams from countries all over the globe. His latest tour of Africa has taken him to a bunch of countries so far, including Zambia, Ethiopia and even the newly-crowned AFCON winners Senegal. But the tour has also turned heads for how people have been reacting to it on social media, with some saying it’s completely changed how they look at the continent. So - is IShowSpeed changing perceptions? Or is he just boosting his personal brand?The BBC’s West Africa reporter Makuochi Okafor joins us to explain what Speed has got up to so far in Africa, why he’s so popular and the impact his tour is having. And we hear from loads of you across the continent who have been telling us what they think.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Is IShowSpeed changing perceptions of Africa?

In most countries around the world where there is mandatory military service, it largely applies to just men. Denmark, Sweden and Norway have all brought in conscription laws for women in recent years. Experts say more countries are hoping to strengthen their armies and respond to geopolitical changes or conflict through these new conscription laws. Others say that it reflects a broader discussion and exploration of gender equality across cultures.BBC reporter Emilia Jansson tells which countries are shifting their focus towards getting women in the army, and explains the reasons why in full.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Imogen James, Benita Barden and Emilia Jansson 
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal 
Editor: Verity Wilde and Julia Ross Roy

Should women be included in conscription?

Where’s the worst place you’ve ever gotten sick? Bet you cant beat space!For the first time since it launched in 1998, astronauts have been evacuated from the International Space Station because of a health problem. They are now back on Earth, but the rare incident has put the spotlight on just how much preparation goes into space flight - and what happens when things don’t go to plan. So - what can you do if you get sick in space?BBC science correspondent Georgina Rannard explains how astronauts treat illnesses in space and what it’s like being on the ISS (spoiler: it’s actually VERY hard to keep clean). Dr Na’im Merchant, an infectious diseases doctor interested in astro-microbiology, explains what kind of illnesses astronauts get in space. And we hear from a former astronaut about staying healthy before and after take-off.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler, William Lee Adams and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Where’s the worst place you’ve ever gotten sick?

K-pop megastars BTS have announced their long-awaited comeback, after their military service for the South Korean army took them out of the game for four years. There’s gonna be a new album, a world tour AND an extravagant 360 degree stage, meaning tickets sales can be maxed out, allowing more fans into stadiums. Experts think it will all net the band over $1 billion.We hear from the BTS Army about how excited they are.But four years is a long time in K-pop, so how can BTS hold onto their crowns? BBC reporter Rachel Lee in Seoul joins us to explain why the band is so important to the South Korean music industry and how they can continue to dominate it.Latin America, Europe and the US are some of the places where dates have been announced but the ‘world tour’ has skipped over the continent of Africa again. More dates are due to be announced, but how are fans feeling there?Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Emilia Jansson
Editor: Julia Ross-Roy

Are BTS still the K-pop kings?

Ultra-processed food - things like biscuits and crisps - are making up more and more of our diets globally. In the US and the UK, ultra-processed food actually make up half the calories we eat. New research is calling for more action to reduce this intake because of its potential threat to our health. But what is ultra-processed food and how does it impact the body? We’re joined by the BBC health reporter Annabel Rackham and Priscila Machado, a nutritionist from Deakin’s Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition in Australia, to talk through everything we need to know. We discuss what ultra-processed food is, what it contains, how to spot it, and if we need to worry about eating it. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart 
Producers: Mora Morrison and Benita Barden 
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

How ultra-processed foods impact the body

The AI tool Grok has caused controversy and shock around the world, after it was revealed that the chatbot can generate images of real people without clothes on. These fake nudes are then posted publicly on X, causing immense distress for the victims. There are also reports of underage victims. BBC technology reporter Laura Cress joins us to explain what has happened with Grok, how governments worldwide are reacting, and how Grok’s owner Elon Musk has responded to the backlash. We hear from Daisy in the UK, whose gym photo was edited without her consent and BBC business reporter Osmond Chia, who’s been speaking to victims of these deepfakes in Indonesia, which has just banned Grok. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: William Lee Adams and Emilia Jansson
Editor: Julia Ross-Roy and Emily Horler

Is Grok undressing you?

American astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed on the Moon in 1969. The landing was televised and watched by around 600 million people around the world. That and subsequent missions have brought back 382kg of moon rock. More than 400,000 people work on the American space programme to get people to the Moon; scientists, engineers, researchers and support staff along with the astronauts.But still, some people don’t believe the Moon landings actually happened and think the whole thing was staged or faked, possibly with the help of Hollywood. Among them are Kim Kardashian, Joe Rogan and YouTuber Shane Dawson. And they’re not alone. In some surveys, as many as 25% of those asked agreed with a statement that the Moon landings had all been a hoax. Results differ by age group, but some surveys have also found there’s even more doubt about the Moon landings in young people, compared to older age groups. In this episode, Nathalie Jimenez, our BBC reporter in New York and Jacqui Wakefield, a BBC global disinformation reporter debunk some of the conspiracy theories about the Moon landing and discuss why younger people are more likely to think it was staged.Audio of Moon landing used courtesy of British Pathé. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy and Chelsea Coates 
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why some people claim the Moon landing was faked

The streets of Iran have been filled with protesters for the last few weeks. What initially started as dissatisfaction over the economy has turned into a nationwide uprising which keeps escalating.The Iranian security forces have responded by firing tear gas into the crowds of people. According to human rights groups, hundreds of demonstrators have reportedly been killed. Amongst those confirmed dead is fashion student Rubina Aminian, whose family have been able to identify her body. But information out of the country remains sparse, as the government has shut off the internet.Now the US President Donald Trump has weighed in on the protests, threatening military intervention. We’re joined by Ghoncheh Habibiazad, a senior reporter at BBC Persian - she explains why people are protesting and what life is like for young people in the country.Shayan Sardarizadeh from BBC Verify also explains how reporters are able to access footage despite limited connection.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Benita Barden, Emily Horler and Emilia Jansson
Editor: Harriet Oliver

Iran protests: What’s happening?

Single girlies, put your hands up!!! Because haven’t you heard? It’s chic to be single. Think solo trips, personal growth for yourself and no one else, and as Miley Cyrus says, you can buy yourself flowers.If you are single, you aren’t alone - by 2030, 45% of women in the US aged between 25 and 44 will be single according to US data. Whilst getting into a relationship has historically been seen as the end goal, it seems that increasingly even if women are in one, they don’t post about their boyfriends. Attitudes to being single are changing - especially for women in heterosexual relationships - many are embracing the single life on social media a bit moreWe hear from Chanté Joseph, the author of that viral Vogue article with the big question ‘is having a boyfriend embarrassing now?’.Three single women tell us their takes on singledom and three BBC pals in China, Turkey and South Korea, tell us what the single stigma is like in their countries. Plus, we should all have a bit more main character energy shouldn’t we? So some of the What in the World team tell you what they’re doing this year to take on a leading role.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Chelsea Coates and Emily Horler
Editor: Verity Wilde

All the single ladies, put your hands up

English is the most widely spoken language globally, both online and IRL. In fact, 1.5 billion people speak it. However, only around 25% of those are native speakers. So how did English become so dominant? Why do people learn it at school? And how have hybrid versions of English, like Spanglish (Spanish-English) or Hinglish (Hindi-English), developed? Georgie Thorman from BBC Learning English joins us to chat through everything we need to know. English is also the most dominant language online and is the lingua franca (dominant language) of pop culture. AI is trained on vast amounts of information taken from the internet. So does this mean that as AI use increases, English will gain even more ground? We invited linguist and AI expert Linda Heimisdóttir onto the pod to explain. Plus, we hear from three young people about why they chose to learn English. Are you learning English right now? We’d love to hear from you. All our details can be found below. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart 
Producers: Mora Morrison, Natalia Makohon and Maria Clara Montoya 
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why people learn English

Brick phones are making a comeback… but it’s not just down to Y2K nostalgia. There’s growing concern around how dependent we are on our smartphones - screen time apps are getting more popular, devices to lock you out of your apps are on the market and some people are even getting rid of their smartphones completely. So, why are so many of us doing a digital detox? And do we even need to?BBC journalist Chelsea Coates explains where this growing trend is coming from, plus she takes us through the data on smartphones and young people. We hear from Elias Wachtel, who reported on this for The Atlantic after giving up his smartphone, and Veda (@Sakuraopal) in Hong Kong, who went viral online after swapping her smartphone for a flip phone to cut her screen time. And Professor Andy Przybylski, who specializes in Human Behaviour and Technology at the University of Oxford, debunks some of the misconceptions we have about phones and our health.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Chelsea Coates, Maria Clara Montoya and Emily Horler
Editor: Verity Wilde

Brick phones are so back

When you think of AI, you might think of funny generated pictures, help with your homework and dating advice. But, do you think of the effect using it might be having on the environment? AI firms usually have huge data centres, which power the technology. And with that great usage, comes great amounts of energy zapped up by AI companies. There’s long been a rumour that every ChatGPT query you make uses one pint of water. So is there any truth to the claim? And is it damaging the world around us? We speak to tech reporter Laura Cress, who explains the environmental impacts of the technology. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Imogen James, Benita Barden and Mora Morrison
Editor: Verity Wilde

Does using AI impact the environment?

Venezuela’s leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores are in custody in the US after President Trump has launched a series of strikes on Venezuela. It was all part of ‘Operation Absolute Resolve’ - a mission the Trump administration had secretly been planning for months. Both Maduro and his wife have been charged with a list of drugs and weapons offences and are due to appear in court in New York later on Monday. President Trump has said the US will run Venezuela until he can organise a “safe, proper and judicious” transition of power. But how will this work?In this episode, we explain why the US went ahead with the attack, whether it is legal, and what the future could hold for people living in Venezuela after the operation.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Venezuela: What just happened?

Just an hour and a half after the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Day 2026, a fire broke out in a bar in Crans-Montana, a ski resort in Switzerland. At least 40 people are confirmed to have died in the blaze and over 100 are injured. Most of the party goers were young people celebrating the start of the New Year. Patients as young as 15 are being treated for severe burns.The exact cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, but authorities have said that the fire was likely an accident and an investigation is already underway. In this episode, we explain what we know about what happened and we hear from people who were in the bar that night as well as BBC reporters covering the story.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Julia Ross-Roy and Harriet Oliver

Switzerland ski resort fire: What we know so far

Women’s appearances have often come under heavy scrutiny, especially their weight. The ideal body type has changed again and again. But in the wake of the body positivity movement of the 2010s, it seems like super skinny models are more prominent once more. There’s a lack of diversity being shown in the fashion industry and across social media. According to the Vogue business report for Spring/Summer 2026, there were fewer mid-size and plus-size models on the catwalks in 2025. So what’s behind it, and what could the effects be? Imogen James from the What in the World team gets into the trend.We also hear from Norwegian model Karoline Bjornelykke, who has experienced working while very thin and being forced into diets, as well as being a curve model.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq 
Producers: Imogen James and Julia Ross-Roy
Editor: Verity Wilde

Is fashion turning its back on body inclusivity?

Gut health seems to be everywhere on social media right now. Top tips for healing your gut, diet advice including things like sea moss and bone broth, and lots and lots of supplements. 
But is there any truth to these suggestions, and should you care that much about your gut? Australian influencer Jade Chiang tells us why she works on her gut health. We get into what your gut microbiome actually is and whether you need to heal it with BBC science broadcaster Caroline Steel. We also delve into trending food with microbiologist Alan Walker, who gives us some ideas on what actually works, and what you should skip. 
Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: William Lee Adams
Producer: Imogen James 
Editor: Julia Ross-Roy

Do I need to heal my gut?

ACOTAR, Fourth Wing, Fate &#38; Flame… all of these popular book series belong to the romantasy genre. It combines elements of romance and fantasy, so think mythical creatures and high drama, all ending with a hard-earned happily ever after. It’s also big on BookTok, with over a million videos using the hashtag. So why is the genre suddenly having a moment?BBC journalist Maia Davies tells us what readers can expect from romantasy books - and why it’s big business for the publishing industry. Sarah Wendell, the founder of Trashybooks.com, tells us about the unique appeal romantasy holds for readers. And we hear from romantasy fans around the world, who tell us why they have fallen in love with the genre. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: William Lee Adams
Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why romantasy books are having a moment

Vitamin C, vitamin D, collagen, creatine, magnesium. All of them can be found in supermarkets, wellness shops and of course, online. These products, also known as supplements, have gained so much popularity that the global market has an estimated value of over $150 billion. But do they actually work and what’s the science behind them? The BBC’s Digital Health editor Michelle Roberts unpacks some of the most popular supplements for us. Plus we hear from people around the world about why they’ve decided to include them in their diet. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: William Lee Adams 
Producers: Chelsea Coates, Rio Rennalls and Maria Clara Montoya 
Editor: Emily Horler

How useful are your supplements?

Nostalgia. That reminiscent, comforting feeling of something from the past that is familiar. We get it with different things, from fashion to TV shows and music. In the last few years, there’s been a huge rise in things like y2k fashion, old school technology like flip phones and digital cameras, and even Kate Bush has made it back into the charts.So why do Gen Z care so much about old things? Professor Ryan Lizardi tells us more about how nostalgia works, when it’s bad for you, and how marketing is keeping old things alive. 
We also hear how nostalgia is interpreted from Marie Tusiama in the Ivory Coast, who runs a successful y2k Instagram page. And what does nostalgia mean in Portuguese and Brazilian culture? Well, we hear from someone else in the Gelbart family - Ben tells us about his favourite Portuguese word, ‘saudade’. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Imogen James 
Editor: Verity Wilde

Are we in our nostalgia era?

Are you an extrovert or an introvert? Do you enjoy small talk with strangers or do you do everything you can to avoid catching their eye? Type A or Type B?Right now the internet is obsessed with these labels. Personality types, birth charts, attachment styles, Myers Briggs, colour coding your aura.These days the internet is full of tests that attempt to define who you are by answering questionnaires, but the reality is more complicated. We go through these trends with Claudia Hammond, a psychologist and BBC presenter.
 
Plus we hear from BBC colleagues in other parts of the world. Yuna Ku tells us the trends around personality types in South Korea and Makuochi Okafor in Nigeria explains how Igbo culture defines people’s characteristics according to four categories.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal
Producers: Benita Barden, Julia Ross-Roy and Rio Rennalls 
Editor: Emily Horler

Why are we obsessed with personality types and labels?

From the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, tonnes of seaweed is turning up on beaches in ever bigger quantities. Seaweed blooms — massive, rapid accumulations of seaweed — are smelly and can release toxic gases. They’re also crowding out native plants. So where is all this seaweed coming from and is it down to climate change? BBC climate and science correspondent Georgina Rannard explains what effect this extra seaweed is having on biodiversity. Lots of countries and scientists are trying to work out what to do with all this seaweed - and even find ways to use it in the fight against climate change. We speak to Santiago Stebelski, who’s 20 and from Mexico. He and his brother have just founded a company called Sargolico, which aims to convert sargassum seaweed into bioplastic. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy, William Lee Adams and Adam Chowdhury
Editor: Emily Horler

Why is there so much seaweed on our beaches?

Football fans all around the world are gearing up for the 2026 Men’s World Cup. It’s set to be a historic tournament and will be hosted by three countries for the first time: the United States, Canada and Mexico. But some fans says it will make the history books for the wrong reasons - because of the jump in ticket prices.Group-stage tickets are up to three times more than those for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and the cheapest ticket for the final will cost hundreds of dollars. FIFA has announced that it will release a small number of more affordable tickets, but some fans say this is not enough.BBC Africa Sports Reporter Celestine Karoney explains the costs of attending the 2026 World Cup - and how the tournament could also be affected by US‘ immigration policy. We also hear from fans in Cape Verde, which has qualified for the tournament for the first time, and in the Ivory Coast about the barriers they have faced when trying to get tickets to World Cup matches.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Mora Morrison, Maria Clara Montoya and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

How easy will it be to go to the 2026 World Cup?

Are your work emails too polite? Do you use unnecessary punctuation and emojis? Career experts have told the BBC that using multiple exclamation marks can seem fake or could impact credibility.The BBC’s Culture reporter Yasmin Rufo has been looking at how the emails you write might be making you come across as less competent and less professional.Plus we’re joined by William Lee Adams who describes what it’s like communicating with people from all over the world at the BBC World Service and considering the email or message culture of different countries.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Benita Barden and Adam Chowdhury
Editor: Verity Wilde

Just checking in…are my emails holding me back at work?! xx

At the end of November, Ethiopia’s biggest social media creators gathered in Addis Ababa for the Ethiopia Creative Awards. It was supposed to be a night celebrating the thriving digital culture but the outfits of the attendees stole the spotlight. A few weeks later six creators were arrested and detained for wearing “indecent attire” at the event and undermining public morality - but what exactly does that mean?Kalkidan Yibeltal, a BBC journalist based in Nairobi, tells us about cultural expectations for clothing in Ethiopia and why the outfits sparked so much controversy there. 
 
Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Benita Barden, Chelsea Coates and Julia Ross-Roy
Editor: Verity Wilde

Ethiopia arrests TikTok creators over ‘indecent’ outfits

Iran is facing its worst drought in decades, with rainfall hitting a record low. Several of the reservoirs that supply water to the capital Tehran are almost empty: one of them, the Latian Dam, is currently holding less than 10% of its capacity. The government is encouraging people in Tehran to use less water and putting heavy restrictions on water supplies, especially at night.But Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, has also suggested another solution - relocating the capital.BBC journalist Ghoncheh Habibiazad outlines these plans and explains what other solutions Iran is using to tackle the problem. We hear from someone living in Tehran about what it’s like living with extreme water shortages. And the BBC’s climate and science correspondent Georgina Rannard explains how climate change is contributing to this drought - and what solutions Iran could use to mitigate water shortages.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy and Chelsea Coates 
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why Iran is running out of water

Charity used to be about bake sales and running marathons. Now it’s all about thumbnails, hashtags, and stunts.Recently, MrBeast ran a massive campaign called #TeamWater - he partnered up with WaterAid and 10,000 other content creators. It raised over $40 million and is the biggest example so far in terms of number of influencers involved in a charitable campaign.Now other influencers, and charities are following this trend - working together on campaigns.
So what happens when charity becomes content? Does this represent the future of philanthropy? Makuochi Okafor, a BBC reporter in Nigeria talks us through this growing trend and we hear from Gisela Amponsa, a Ghanaian digital creator, who was part of the #TeamWater campaign. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producer: Julia Ross-Roy
Editors: Verity Wilde and Harriet Oliver

The growing trend of influencers fronting charity campaigns

Taiwan is an island about 180 kilometres off the coast of China - nearly 24 million people live there. Taiwan is self governed but China says it’s part of its territory. Only 12 countries (plus the Vatican) officially recognise Taiwan as a country. Taiwan is increasingly worried that China could be preparing to take the island by force. Whatever happens there could affect your whole online life, because Taiwan makes most of the world’s computer chips, which power your phone, your laptop, AI apps and electric cars. In this episode Shawn Yuan from the BBC’s Global China Unit explains the relationship between Taiwan and China and how the whole world could be affected if conflict broke out. We also hear from Taiwanese students Yi-Ting and Louis and Chinese student Rongzhi, who tell us how they feel about Taiwan-China relations. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy, Imogen James and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

Taiwan and China: Everything you need to know

On Sunday evening in Australia, two gunmen opened fire on a Hanukkah event on Sydney’s Bondi Beach in Australia. Fifteen people were killed and dozens more are in hospital.In this episode we’re going to look at what we know about what happened and talk about why the Jewish community in Australia were already concerned about their safety before the shooting.Australia has some of the strictest gun laws in the world - we’ll also talk about how they work and why some people are now calling for them to be tightened. BBC’s William Lee Adams joins us to helpInstagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Benita Barden and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Bondi Beach shooting: What we know so far

Vases crafted thousands of years ago, temples built by past civilisations, natural parks with stunning waterfalls. These are all tangible things, there is a physical trace of them and many times they are protected and valued. But what about festivals, recipes or dances and skills that are unique to a certain part of the world? These cannot be stored, really. However they are passed on, become part of many people’s identities and are known as intangible cultural heritage. UNESCO, the United Nations agency that focuses on culture and education has released its yearly list recognising these practices. But what does it actually mean to be included and why is it celebrated? We hear from Matthieu Guevel, Chief of Communications at UNESCO.Plus we talk to three people whose cultural practices have been added to the list this year: Paola Maggiulli a British-Italian cook, Lika Kat, a content creator from Kyrgyzstan and Zahra Hankir, a Lebanese author and journalist.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Chelsea Coates
Producers: Maria Clara Montoya and Benita Barden 
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why does protecting traditions matter?

Stray Kids or BlackPink? Spice Girls or Westlife? Music executives - like Simon Cowell - have been creating girl bands and boy bands for decades. And he’s about to launch a brand new competition on Netflix to find “The Next Act”. When we talk about these groups, we generally mean good-looking young women or men who’ve been brought together, and who don’t tend to write their own songs or play their own instruments. Their fans are stereotyped as being teenage girls and their mums. Is there any truth to the belief that girl bands make better music because they are held to higher standards? The BBC’s music correspondent Mark Savage explains how pop bands have evolved over the decades. We look at the different pressures and stereotyping that girl and boy bands face and we hear from some of our BBC friends - do they prefer girl bands or boy bands and why?Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy and Adam Chowdhury
Editor: Verity Wilde

Boy bands vs girl bands: Who makes better music?

More than half a million people have been forced to leave their homes in Cambodia and Thailand. This follows rising conflict over the two countries’ shared border. Now, this is not a new dispute. In fact it’s been going on for decades. But this year things have gotten worse. A ceasefire was negotiated by US president Donald Trump in October. But it hasn’t held. Trump now says he will ‘make a phone call’ to stop the fighting. BBC reporter Panisa Aemocha, in Bangkok, chats us through the humanitarian needs of hundreds of thousands of evacuees. We also from the BBC’s South East Asia correspondent Jonathan Head who’s at an evacuation centre, and from two young people who have fled their houses. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Mora Morrison and Maria Clara Montoya
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why Cambodia and Thailand are fighting

The Trump administration says it has killed dozens of people in strikes on boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, which it says are from Venezuela and are carrying illegal drugs bound for the US. The US hasn’t provided any evidence or details about those who have been killed. Experts have questioned the legality of these strikes. President Trump has alleged the Venezuelan leader, Nicolas Maduro runs a criminal group called Cartel de los Soles. Maduro denies this and has accused the US of using its "war on drugs" as an excuse to try and remove him from power to access Venezuela’s huge oil reserves.Mimi Swaby, a BBC Global Affairs Reporter who focuses on Latin America, explains the history between the US and Venezuela and why the US is launching strikes on boats. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal
Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

Venezuela and the US have a tense relationship

Australia is banning social media for everyone under 16. The government says it’s to protect children from cyber bullying, harmful content and online predators. TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter) - they’re some of the platforms that are going to be banned. Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, has already started kicking under-16s off its apps. An estimated 150,000 Facebook users and 350,000 Instagram accounts are expected to be affected. The social media ban will come in to effect from December 10. Lots of teenagers are unhappy about this social media ban. But what about Australians who are now over 16? Do they wish they’d had something similar? We chat to Felix, 20, Lia, 19, and Habibat, 21, to find out.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Benita Barden, Mora Morrison and Julia Ross-Roy 
Researchers: Natalia Makohon and Rio Rennalls
Editor: Verity Wilde

How a social media ban would have changed my teens

Across the world, footballers are hoping to be picked for their national team to play at FIFA World Cup 2026, but in Europe's top leagues, teams are picking younger players. In the Premier League this season, just over half of players are 25 and under. The average age of footballers starting matches is now 26 years and 217 days, the youngest in Premier League history.Being a young footballer is nothing new. But the amount of young footballers is rising. For some, like Arsenal’s Max Dowman, they are setting records. He’s the youngest Champions League player ever, debuting this season at 15-years-old. So why is football getting younger? BBC Sport reporter Jonty Colman gets into the game, the pressures, and why clubs are chasing down young talent. We also hear from Chifundo Mbofana, a young semi-professional footballer in Malawi, who explains how young players can inspire others.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Imogen James, Mora Morrison and Julia Ross-Roy
Editor: Verity Wilde

Footballers are getting younger

You’ve probably had a call from someone pretending to be your bank - or even a family member - all to find out that it’s a scam. It’s part of a global, lucrative industry: the UN estimates that countries in east and southeast Asia lost an estimated $37 billion to cyber fraud in 2023, while the United States reported losses of more than $5.6 billion. But have you ever considered that the people behind these scams are sometimes victims themselves?Across South East Asia, in countries like Myanmar and Cambodia, thousands of people from all over the world work in ‘scam centres’. Some are forced to be there - and say they faced torture and beatings. The BBC’s South East Asia Correspondent, Jonathan Head, has been to Shwe Kokko in Myanmar, where several centres are located. He tells us what it was like, how the scam industry operates and how the authorities are trying to crack down on it. We also hear from Mwesezi, a 21 year old from Uganda, who was trafficked to Myanmar after arriving in Thailand, for what he thought was a job in the IT industry.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal
Producers: Imogen James, Chelsea Coates, Rio Rennalls and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

The darker side behind scam texts

Kerala claims to be the first state in India to have ended extreme poverty. Over the past four years, various government departments have worked together to provide around 64,000 families living in extreme poverty with food, shelter, medical care and scholarships for their children. But what is extreme poverty and why are some people questioning this claim? The BBC’s Shruti Menon, who is from Kerala, explains all. She also chats us through how extreme poverty rates across India have plummeted in the past decade. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbert 
Producers: Mora Morrison and Natalia Makohon
Editor: Verity Wilde

Did India just end poverty in Kerala?

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Thousands of schools have been damaged in the war. According to the UN children agency Unicef, only a third of Ukraine's schoolchildren currently study in-person, due to the threat of missile and drone attacks as well as shelling. Russia has attacked energy infrastructure so there are also frequent power cuts across the country. In this episode we hear what life is like for students in Ukraine right now.Initially Russian forces captured large parts of Ukraine and nearly made it to the capital, Kyiv, but Ukraine pushed the Russian forces back. Now the fighting is mostly in the south and east of the country, but the whole country is affected. Ukraine has started to build schools underground to allow children to carry on studying during rocket attacks, both purpose-built and by converting existing underground spaces. We speak to BBC reporter Olga Malchevska who has been to see what one of these schools is like. Another area where education has changed is in Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine. The BBC is not able to travel to these areas but we discuss allegations of “re-education” there. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal
Producers: Natalia Makohon and Julia Ross-Roy
Editor: Verity Wilde

Ukraine’s underground schools

Sugar taxes are in place in several countries including Mexico and the UK. And they’re evolving. Maybe you’ve noticed that some sweet fizzy drinks are getting more expensive? Buying drinks with added sugar has an extra cost, which is commonly known as sugar tax. It’s a way to discourage people from consuming too much sugar - something which can lead to poor health if consumed in excess. But do these sugar taxes work? Our BBC colleague Maria Clara Montoya has been looking into this with the help of Elisa Pineda, a public health expert from The George Institute for Global Health at Imperial College London.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Iqra Farooq 
Producers: Mora Morrison and Maria Clara Montoya
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why are some sugary drinks more expensive?

Colombian archaeologists have retrieved the first items from what’s thought to be the most valuable shipwreck in the world. A Spanish naval ship, the San José, was sunk by a British fleet off the coast of Colombia more than 300 years ago. It had a cargo of gold, silver and emeralds worth billions of dollars in today’s money. Treasure hunters had tried to locate the shipwreck for many years, before Colombia announced that it had discovered it back in 2015.But how can we be sure this is the actual San Jose - and if it is, who has the rightful claim to the precious cargo onboard?Helen Farr, a marine archaeologist from the University of Southampton in the UK, takes us through the legal dispute over who owns the ship, and recounts how it ended up on the ocean floor. And we hear from Mariana Carulla, a conservationist in the Colombian ministry of culture, who has been working with the team that’s retrieving objects from the shipwreck. She tells us what they have found so far - and explains how authorities are searching for clues about the shipwreck’s true identity.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Emily Horler, Maria Clara Montoya and Chelsea Coates
Editor: Verity Wilde

Could this be the most valuable shipwreck in the world?

Elon Musk could be about to become the world’s first trillionaire. That’s after a record-breaking pay package - that could be worth nearly $1tn (£760bn) - was approved by Tesla shareholders. The electric car boss is already the world's richest man, but this would take his wealth to a whole new level. But who is Elon Musk and how did he make all this money? We explain all, as well as breaking down what a trillion dollars actually is. Plus, we hear from two special guests about what they would do with a trillion dollars.But not everyone thinks trillionaires are a good thing. Billie Eilish has been vocal about this. She recently called for billionaires to give their money away. And then there’s charities, like Oxfam, who point to rising global inequality. BBC reporter Nathalie Jimenez joins us to crunch the numbers, and explain all sides of the arguments for, and against, trillionaires. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Mora Morrison, Chelsea Coates and Emily Horler
Video producer: Baldeep Chahal
Editor: Verity Wilde

Are we in the age of trillionaires?

Children learn best when they’re taught in the language they use at home, research suggests. But there's the question about the power of world languages like English, Spanish, French or Arabic and how they could provide more opportunities to those who learn it, be it in education or a career. You’ve been messaging us about what languages you learned in at school. Say hello to Brian in Kenya and Christian in the Philippines!We then skip over to Nigeria, where our reporter Makuochi Okafor breaks down for us why the government is reversing its policy of teaching in other languages that aren't English. And our colleague Santiago tells us what went wrong when he was learning in English in his Colombian school. Plus, we get the research from Justine Sass, from UNESCO - the UN agency for education, science and culture.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Julia Ross-Roy, Chelsea Coates, Maria Clara Montoya and Emily Horler 
Editor: Verity Wilde

Do students learn best in their first language?

GPS interference or GPS ‘jamming’ is getting more common. It’s when radio signals on the same frequencies as GPS satellites are used to overwhelm and block legitimate navigation signals. It’s led to pilots having to make emergency landings or switch to older non-GPS systems. The issue has become so prevalent that the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) held a conference on it last year. Several European governments also believe it is intentional interference by Russia. BBC journalist Emilia Jansson explains GPS jamming in detail and how it is affecting the aviation industry.Plus we hear from Ian Petchenik, director of communications at flight-tracking website Flightradar24 about what GPS interference looks like in real-time.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart 
Producer: Emilia Jansson and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

Why your plane’s GPS might be sabotaged (but don’t be scared)

COP30, the big meeting where countries discuss climate change annually, has finished. This year it was hosted in the city of Belem in Brazil, in the Amazon forest, which is directly affected by it. The role of the two biggest emitters has also made headlines. The United States hasn’t taken part in the talks and China has kept a very low profile. This summit has ended without a clear commitment to phase out fossil fuels and that has angered protesters and activists, who participated in demonstrations showing their opposition to this plan. We wrap up the highlights of COP30 with our resident climate expert, Georgina Rannard and also hear from Natalia Tsuyama, a Brazilian climate activists who shares with us how her first COP has been. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Emily Horler and Maria Clara Montoya
Editor: Verity Wilde