What in the World

Georgina Rannard, BBC climate and science correspondent, dives into the troubling rise of seaweed blooms around the globe, linking them to climate change and ecological disruptions. Santiago Stebelski, a young entrepreneur from Mexico, shares his journey founding Sargolico, a venture transforming sargassum into sustainable bioplastics. They discuss the harmful effects of seaweed on biodiversity, potential solutions like carbon sequestration, and how technology could help predict future blooms. It's an eye-opening look at innovation meeting environmental challenges.

Celestine Karoney, a BBC sports reporter specializing in African football, joins to discuss the 2026 World Cup's challenges. She reveals ticket prices skyrocketing to three times those of Qatar, raising concerns among fans. Cape Verde's first-time qualifiers voice fears about affordability and access. Travel restrictions could bar many fans from attending, especially from Africa. Celestine highlights FIFA's delays in addressing these issues, leaving many hopeful yet uncertain about their World Cup experience.

Yasmin Rufo, a BBC culture reporter specializing in workplace communication, shares insights on how email tone and punctuation can shape professional perception. She reveals that excessive politeness and emojis may undermine your credibility. Joining her is William Lee Adams from the BBC World Service, who discusses global differences in email styles. They explore how cultural context influences communication, with tips on being direct and authentic while navigating diverse email practices. Discover how to refine your emails for a more confident workplace presence!

In this discussion, Kalkidan Yibeltal, a BBC journalist reporting on Ethiopian culture, dives into the recent uproar after the Ethiopia Creative Awards. Six TikTok creators were arrested for ‘indecent attire,’ sparking debates on clothing norms and gender expectations in a conservative society. Kalkidan highlights specific outfits that drew fire, the mixed public reactions, and the government's tense relationship with TikTok amidst broader cultural shifts. It's a fascinating exploration of fashion, morality, and the power of social media in Ethiopia.

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

Charity has transformed from bake sales to influencer-led campaigns like MrBeast's #TeamWater, which raised over $40 million. Makuochi Okafor discusses how influencers are reshaping philanthropy, while Ghanaian creator Gisela Amponsa shares her experiences and audience reactions. The conversation dives into criticisms of celebrity aid and the benefits influencers gain from partnerships. Could this trend represent the future of giving, blending outreach with entertainment in a relatable way? Discover the dynamics at play in modern charity.

Shawn Yuan, a journalist from the BBC's Global China Unit, breaks down the complex relationship between Taiwan and China. He explores Taiwan's vibrant identity and the fear of potential forceful reunification. Yuan highlights the global stakes, emphasizing how Taiwan's semiconductor dominance could impact technology everywhere. He also shares insights from Taiwanese and Chinese students about their cultural ties and the generational views shaped by education. The conversation dives into US-Taiwan relations, potential conflict scenarios, and the implications for global trade.

William Lee Adams, a BBC journalist known for his insights on international news, provides a deep dive into the Bondi Beach shooting that claimed 15 lives during a Hanukkah event. He discusses Australia’s stringent gun laws, which have been under scrutiny since the tragedy. The conversation highlights community concerns about safety and the government's response, including possible tightening of gun ownership regulations. Adams also explains the police investigations into the attack, framing it as a significant terror incident.

Explore the significance of intangible cultural heritage, from festive dances to unique recipes. Hear why UNESCO's recognition matters, benefiting community pride and cultural transmission. Matthieu Guevel highlights the shift from protecting physical sites to celebrating living traditions. Personal stories from practitioners—like a British-Italian cook and a Lebanese journalist—show how this recognition fosters diplomacy and unity across countries. Discover the rigorous process behind getting on the UNESCO list!

Mark Savage, the BBC music correspondent and pop music expert, dives into the age-old debate of boy bands versus girl bands. He explores how boy bands evolve teenage identity while girl groups often emphasize themes of sisterhood and belonging. Mark critiques the lyrical differences, praising the creativity in modern groups like Stray Kids, and highlights the scrutiny girl bands face online. Additionally, he discusses the commercial dynamics and marketing strategies behind these iconic groups and weighs in on Simon Cowell's new quest to discover the next big act.