What in the World

A striking political divide among Gen Z is reshaping their romantic landscape, with young men leaning more Republican than their female counterparts. As dating dynamics shift, couples are grappling with political compatibility, often complicating their relationships. Personal stories illustrate the challenges of dating across party lines, while experts offer insights on navigating love in a polarized world. This generation values authenticity and meaningful dialogue about beliefs, pushing for common ground despite differing views.

In this engaging discussion, Stephanie Hegarty, BBC's Population Correspondent, sheds light on the UNFPA's alarming report on declining fertility rates. She reveals that many want more children but are stymied by financial pressures and partner availability. The talk also highlights how some countries find it easier to prevent births rather than encourage them. With a global perspective, Hegarty examines the complex interplay of societal expectations and economic barriers that shape our choices about parenthood.

Vanessa Igoe, a BBC journalist, dives into the Land Back movement, showcasing its vital role in restoring Indigenous rights and environmental stewardship. The conversation highlights historical injustices, diverse strategies for reclaiming ancestral lands, and the legal battles faced by communities like the Maori and Yurok. Guests share personal stories, emphasizing cultural significance and ongoing struggles in Australia and Canada. The discussion also spotlights how Indigenous governance can enhance biodiversity and environmental management across the globe.

The podcast dives into the alarming rates of ACL injuries among female footballers, highlighting the impact of increased participation in the sport. It features Manchester United player Gabby George sharing her emotional journey with two injuries. Expert James Brouner discusses risk factors and research efforts aimed at injury prevention. Solutions like better boot design and player monitoring are explored, revealing the challenges and advancements in rehabilitation. A compelling mix of personal stories and data sheds light on a pressing issue in women’s sports.

Mengchen Zhang, a journalist with the BBC Global China Unit, dives into the tantalizing world of Chinese micro-dramas that are taking social media by storm. These short, addictive episodes boast scandalous plots and have spawned a booming $14 billion market. Mengchen discusses the emotional depth that captivates viewers and the implications for traditional film. She also highlights the role of AI in drama production, including its impact on storytelling and attention spans, raising intriguing questions about censorship and creative freedom.

Amid a fragile ceasefire, tensions between Israel and Iran are examined through the lens of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's elusive leadership. Insights reveal the power dynamics in Iran's governance, contrasting the presidential and supreme roles. The leader's grip on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is scrutinized alongside a spike in public discontent. As health concerns about Khamenei arise, speculations regarding his future and potential successors unfold in the context of ongoing protests and geopolitical unrest.

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, has seen a surge in recreational use, especially since the pandemic. Experts warn of serious health risks, including neurological damage and even death. An eye-opening story highlights the tragic consequences of addiction. Marketing strategies targeting youth are also contributing to this unsettling trend. Meanwhile, varying regulations around the globe reflect growing concerns over safety and misuse. The evolution of this substance invites a complex conversation about culture, health, and policy.

Liv McMahon, a BBC Tech reporter, dives into the rising reliance on AI chatbots and the implications for our communication and learning. She debunks myths about AI consciousness while highlighting the environmental costs of these technologies. Plus, she discusses the effects of politeness on AI interactions and the importance of digital literacy. Alongside AI expert Antonio Weiss, they share practical tips for maximizing AI use, all while cautioning against over-dependence and the need to preserve human connections.

The K-pop industry is known for being super strict and encouraging idols not to share details about their private lives, especially their relationships. For LGBTQ idols, there’s an added layer of pressure, where they can’t reveal or talk about their sexuality at all, due to the stigma associated with homosexuality in South Korea. The country is deeply divided over LGBTQ acceptance.So what happens if you do mention your sexuality as a K-pop idol? BBC Korean’s Juna Moon has been talking to Bain from the boyband JUST B, who came out as gay on stage during a show in Los Angeles earlier this year. We hear some of her interview with Bain, who talks about his fans’ reactions. And Juna explains why it’s so unusual for K-pop idols to disclose their sexual identity. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Julia-Ross Roy and Benita Barden Editor: Verity Wilde

Climate change is one of the biggest issues of our time. Warmer weather and melting ice is forcing people and animals to migrate but it’s also threatening traditions. Myths, dances and national dishes - we’ve all got distinctive, defining customs that we would never want to lose. So what are people across the world doing to keep hold of their identities?BBC journalist Abiona Boja explains how cultural heritage loss is affecting young people across the globe. We hear from Muntadhar Abdul Ali about the droughts in Iraq’s marshes. And Maya Natuk tells us how rising temperatures in Greenland are affecting people’s sense of identity there. They explain the actions they’re taking to save their cultural traditions from extinction.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Abiona Boja, Benita Barden and Julia Ross-Roy Video Journalist: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde