The Global Story

Dorcas Wangira, Africa Health correspondent, and Dominic Hughes, BBC’s Global Health correspondent, delve into the alarming rise of mpox cases across Africa and beyond. They discuss the recent surge with over 17,000 cases and the risks posed by a new strain. The conversation highlights the significant challenges in vaccine access, particularly in fragile healthcare systems and the stigma surrounding the disease. They also address treatment difficulties and the emotional impact on those infected, emphasizing the urgent need for global awareness and response.

In this engaging discussion, digital reporter Mike Wendling, who covers tech and politics, teams up with Natalie Sherman, a business reporter focusing on economic trends. They delve into the surprising support for Donald Trump from Silicon Valley heavyweights like Elon Musk. The conversation highlights how this shift from Democratic roots reflects changing political alliances, especially the 'anti-woke' sentiments in tech. They also explore the implications of these shifts on upcoming elections and how tech figures influence campaign strategies.

Tom Gerken, a BBC tech reporter, and Steffan Powell, the BBC's former gaming correspondent, delve into the uncertain future of Twitch, the leading live-streaming platform. They discuss its impressive 240 million monthly users but stress the challenges of achieving profitability and ongoing layoffs. The duo explores the fierce competition from YouTube and others, along with Twitch's unique features and community interactions. Will its dedicated audience make it too big to fail, or is it facing a decline amidst the evolving digital landscape?

Vitaly Shevchenko, Russia Editor for BBC Monitoring, and Francis Scarr, a Russia expert, dive into Ukraine's surprising military advancements into Russian territory. They discuss how this bold move could shift the war dynamics in Ukraine’s favor. The guests analyze Putin's response, branding the attack a provocation, and the resulting evacuations in Russia. They also explore the impact of these developments on civilian lives and regional stability, highlighting shifts in military strategy and the implications for future peace negotiations.

Kamala Harris, a rising political force and the expected Democratic nominee, discusses her candidacy and strategies leading up to the upcoming election. She shares insights on crucial polling data and the impact of swing states on her campaign. The conversation delves into her unique positioning within the party, especially in engaging younger voters and communities of color. Additionally, the challenges she faces against Donald Trump's shifting strategies are highlighted, emphasizing the critical role of the upcoming Democratic National Convention in shaping her campaign's future.

Indonesia's plan for a new capital, Nusantara, aims to combat Jakarta's pollution and sinking issues. The ambitious vision includes creating a carbon-neutral metropolis in Borneo's rainforest. However, the project faces significant challenges, from environmental threats to local resistance over displacement concerns. As construction continues, questions arise about whether Nusantara can truly deliver on its eco-friendly promises while ensuring equitable benefits for its diverse population. Can this bold relocation save Jakarta from a watery fate?

Katie Gornall, a seasoned BBC Sport Correspondent, and Zack "Cracker Zacks" Slusser, vice president of Breaking DanceSport for USA Dance, dive into the Olympic debut of breaking. They explore the cultural roots of this vibrant dance form from the South Bronx. The discussion highlights improvisation challenges for dancers and the significance of heritage preservation amid its rise in competitive arenas. Insightful stories from diverse athletes reveal the transformative potential of breaking for future generations.

Violent anti-immigration protests erupt across the UK after the tragic stabbing of three young girls raises tensions. Misinformation stirs public outrage, as far-right groups exploit the chaos. The influence of controversial figures like Tommy Robinson adds fuel to the fire. Meanwhile, police struggle to manage the unrest, and government responses draw parallels to past riots. Counter-demonstrations bring hope amid growing societal unrest as communities grapple with the implications of rising extremism.

Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor and former teacher, joins to discuss his selection as Kamala Harris's running mate. He shares insights into the strategies behind their campaign and how he aims to connect with rural working-class voters. The conversation highlights his recent social media jabs at Trump, calling him 'weird', and the GOP's pushback branding him a liberal extremist. The dynamic between the Harris-Walz ticket and Trump's VP pick, J.D. Vance, adds to the unfolding political drama as the 2024 election approaches.

Katy Watson, an Australia correspondent, brings her insightful perspective on the nuanced impact of migration policies on disabled migrants. She shares personal stories of families grappling with restrictive visa regulations that label them as burdens. The discussion highlights the emotional toll of immigration hurdles faced by disabled individuals and the call for policy reforms, emphasizing a nation’s contradiction between valuing diversity and the discriminatory practices that undermine inclusivity. Watson's experiences resonate with a broader narrative of advocacy and hope.