What in the World

Nathalie Jimenez, a BBC reporter based in New York, discusses Bad Bunny's monumental rise and cultural impact. She details his record-breaking streaming success and the significance of his Spanish-language music. Jimenez also explores his bold decision to headline the Super Bowl halftime show while skipping a U.S. tour due to immigration concerns. The conversation highlights how his San Juan residency revitalized the local economy and underscores Puerto Rico's intricate relationship with the U.S. Bad Bunny's influence amplifies Puerto Rican culture on the global stage.

Explore the troubling tradition of bride kidnapping in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, where women are abducted and pressured into marriage. Hear personal stories from victims, highlighting the fear and economic pressures behind this practice. Discover the origins from the 18th century and the stark reality of underreporting and legal challenges in prosecuting offenders. Learn about high-profile cases that sparked public protests and legal reforms aiming to eliminate this practice. Hope for change emerges through activism and renewed societal attitudes.

Adam Chowdhury, a producer and reporter who dives into music culture trends, shares insights on the no-phone policies popping up at concerts worldwide. He discusses how artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Billie Eilish advocate for live experiences over screens. DJs from Berlin talk about their strict camera bans, while others argue that fan filming boosts their visibility. Adam highlights a variety of global venues supporting or opposing these rules, and he suggests a balanced approach to capturing memories without losing the moment.

Makuochi Okafor, a BBC reporter, dives into the recent social media frenzy surrounding Rapture predictions, shedding light on a viral claim by a South African preacher. He discusses the Rapture’s contested meaning among Christians and its cultural impact across Africa and the US. Personal stories emerge, including Hannah's fear of being left behind. Makuochi explains how doomsday beliefs often offer comfort, while addressing the emotional fallout after failed predictions. He also highlights the lack of direct biblical references to the Rapture.

Sofia Bettiza, the BBC's Global Health reporter, dives into the fascinating realm of the four-day work week. She discusses how a recent study reveals significant wellbeing improvements, sparking debates over its adoption. Bettiza explores cultural differences in work hours, from the grueling 996 schedule in China to innovative trials in countries like Iceland and France. Additionally, she examines the challenges of implementing this model in various job sectors and how the pandemic has reshaped worker expectations toward a greater work-life balance.

PLAVE is your average hit-making K-pop group, but with a twist: its members are virtual avatars. There are real-life performers behind the characters, who control their voices and dance moves using motion capture technology, but their identities are kept secret. Despite their anonymity, a South Korean court has sided with the group after they sued a social media user for insulting comments they posted online about the avatars. Each member was only awarded around $70 US dollars, but the case is one of the first of its kind and sets an important precedent. So what does this mean for how we interact with virtual bands online in the future? The BBC’s Rachel Lee, based in Seoul, breaks down everything you need to know.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Pria Rai Producers: Maria Clara Montoya and Chelsea Coates Editor: Harriet Oliver

Tiffany Turnbull, a BBC journalist in Sydney, sheds light on Australia's koala crisis, where up to 80% are infected with deadly chlamydia. She discusses the vaccine trials showing a two-thirds reduction in deaths and the challenges of treating these charming marsupials. Additionally, Tiffany highlights the urgent need for habitat protection, especially with the establishment of the Great Koala National Park, which has been a major campaign effort. The fight for these beloved creatures continues amidst urban threats and natural disasters.

Akisa Wandera, a BBC journalist from Nairobi, shares the astonishing story of Evans Kibet, a Kenyan runner who became a soldier for Russia after unintentionally signing a document. Akisa provides insights into Kibet's transition from athlete to prisoner of war and his escape attempts. Meanwhile, Vitaliy Shevchenko reveals the troubling tactics Russia employs to recruit foreign fighters, including deception and coercion. They explore the implications of this recruitment on global conflicts and the complex repatriation options for those caught in such circumstances.

Dive into the world of romantic entanglements with a look at the beloved series featuring the tension between two brothers and their shared love interest. Fans are divided into Team Jeremiah and Team Conrad, fueling intense debates, even leading to online hostility. Discover how the show's weekly release strategy keeps the excitement alive, inspiring watch parties across the globe. The discussion also touches on the unique aspects of fan culture, nostalgia, and the powerful role of music in shaping the series' emotional atmosphere.

Dorcas Wangira, a BBC Africa health correspondent, dives into Rwanda's groundbreaking new law allowing teens aged 15 to access contraceptives without parental consent. She highlights how this move aims to tackle the alarming teen pregnancy rates, seen as a national crisis. However, the law faces backlash from religious groups and social media. Dorcas discusses the availability of sex education, the stigmas surrounding teenage pregnancy, and the ongoing debates around comprehensive sex education in a country grappling with cultural norms.