What in the World

In this engaging conversation, Shane Singh, an Assistant Professor at the University of Georgia who specializes in compulsory voting, discusses the fascinating intricacies of mandatory voting systems. He explores how compulsory voting influences voter turnout and the socio-economic factors at play. The conversation touches on the enforcement of voting obligations in Australia, contrasting it with practices in Latin America, and delves into the pros and cons of such laws. Discover how these systems impact civic engagement and the overall electoral landscape.

Hanna Samosir, a BBC reporter based in Jakarta, sheds light on Bali's pressing waste management crisis. She discusses the ambitious goal set by the governor to make the island waste-free by 2027 amidst overwhelming plastic pollution. Tourists generate far more waste than locals, complicating efforts to go green. Challenges include managing organic waste and the stronghold of single-use plastics. Yet, regulatory changes for businesses and innovative solutions are on the horizon in Bali's fight against waste.

Anne Okumu, a BBC Africa journalist, dives into the alarming decline of shea butter production in Uganda. She reveals how the once-lush Mount Kei Central Forest Reserve has fallen prey to deforestation, driven largely by charcoal production. The conversation highlights the deep impact on local women's livelihoods and the wider implications of climate change on this vital resource. Okumu also sheds light on conservation efforts aimed at protecting the precious shea trees and ensuring that this 'women's gold' doesn't disappear.

Victoria Gill, a BBC science correspondent, discusses the endangered axolotl, a unique amphibian famed for its ability to regenerate body parts and maintain a juvenile appearance. The conversation covers the successful reintroduction of captive-bred axolotls into the wild, highlighting promising survival rates and growth. Gill also shares insights into the ongoing conservation efforts in their native habitats and the potential implications of their regenerative capabilities for human medicine. Listeners will fall in love with these fascinating creatures!

Anoushka Mutanda-Dougherty, host of the BBC podcast Diddy on Trial, delves into the serious allegations against Sean 'Diddy' Combs, including sex trafficking and racketeering. She discusses the gravity of the charges and how they could impact the upcoming trial. The podcast tackles Diddy's response to the allegations and the implications of potential victim testimonies. Anoushka also shares insights into the legal complexities involved, as well as plans for extensive coverage of the trial, ensuring listeners stay informed about this high-profile case.

Two Belgian teenagers have plead guilty to trying to smuggle thousands of giant African harvester ants out of Kenya. The authorities said they were allegedly planning to sell the ants on the growing exotic pet market in Europe and Asia, where ant keepers put the insects in special habitats and watch them build their colonies. BBC reporter Akisa Wandera talks us through this landmark case.We also hear from two ant keepers, Kaden (Ender Ants) and Mauro (Bruma Ants) on why they love their pets.And finally, a quick question for you, how many ants do you think there are for every person on earth? A) 10 ants B) 67 thousand ants C) 980 thousand ants D) 2.5 million antsListen to the episode for the answer!Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Chelsea Coates Editor: Verity Wilde

Caroline Steel, a BBC science presenter, dives into the fascinating world of human adaptation to space. She discusses how spending extended time in microgravity affects muscles, bones, and even vision, highlighting the unique challenges astronauts face. Steel shares insights on training regimens designed to combat these effects and the extraordinary stories of astronauts like Peggy Whitson, who holds the record for time spent in space. Discover how these brave explorers maintain their health while floating among the stars!

In this discussion, BBC journalist Natalia Zuo, known for her documentary on China's booming cosmetic surgery industry, uncovers the pressures driving young women towards extreme beauty standards. She highlights how filtered images on social media and easy access to procedures are transforming perceptions of beauty and success. Zuo also reveals the dangerous rise of unlicensed clinics and the urgent need for regulation, offering a glimpse into the profound societal impacts of this trend.

Many economists have warned that the world is poised for an economic downturn. The warnings come after President Trump's recent changes to America’s tariff policies. Changes in consumer spending — including their fashion choices — are one potential “recession indicator.”Erin Delmore, the BBC’s North America business correspondent, explains what a recession is and discusses how people’s purchasing decisions — regarding everything from clothes to salon visits — offer clues to what’s going on with the economy. We also hear from Caroline Stevenson from the London College of Fashion. She explains how trends come about and unpacks recent trends like the “clean girl” look and the “office siren”. Plus content creator Leah Holme discusses how she makes mindful purchasing decisions based on the long-term. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: William Lee Adams, Benita Barden, Abiona Boja, Maria Clara Montoya Editor: Verity Wilde

Finding the right shade of makeup can be a struggle, especially if you have really fair or dark skin. But things are changing. Some brands, including Korean ones are looking at their shade ranges and making them more inclusive. Soo Min Kim, a BBC reporter, takes us through the K-beauty industry and what’s changing.We also hear from two beauty influencers - May Akhtar and Oceanne Comtois. Have they seen much change and could K-beauty be what the market needs?Gloria Achieng is a BBC reporter in Kenya - how popular are products there?And Adam Triantis from Dcypher walks us through why brands having a huge shade range can be hard logistically and whether AI could help. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde