Abounding Opportunities

Two major new building projects open at last, and a huge trial begins in Asia.

India election 2019: Rahul Gandhi to contest from two seats

The Congress party president will for the first time contest India's election from a southern state.

Kim Jong-nam murder: Vietnamese woman pleads guilty to lesser charge

Doan Thi Huong pleads guilty to a lesser charge of causing injury, and could be freed as soon as May.

Japan reveals name of new imperial era will be 'Reiwa'

Japan's current era will end in a month when Emperor Akihito steps down in a historic abdication.

Rapper Nipsey Hussle shot dead in Los Angeles

The Grammy-nominated rapper was shot outside his clothing shop in South Central Los Angeles.

Venezuela crisis: Opposition's Guaidó awaits army support

Juan Guaidó tells the BBC that backing from the armed forces is needed to change the government.

Is our growing obsession with true crime a problem?

Over the last few years crime documentaries are everywhere, but ethical questions remain.

Uncovering Nazi massacre of Jews on Belarus building site

A thousand victims of Brest's wartime Jewish ghetto have been found as the city wakes up to its past.

Letter from Africa: 'We're not cleaners' - sexism amid Sudan protests

Why women in Sudan have taken anti-government demonstrations to heart by using Facebook to expose abuse.

Natalia Fileva: Russia airline co-owner dies in private jet crash

Natalia Fileva, one of Russia's richest women and S7's major shareholder, dies in a German air crash.

Ukraine election: What would a comic president mean?

The actor played the president on TV and is now well placed to land the role for real.

Algeria protests: Bouteflika appoints new government

The country's embattled president has overseen a major reshuffle as anti-government protests continue.

New Orleans mayor to apologise for 1891 lynching of Italian-Americans

The 1891 killing of 11 Italian-Americans is thought to be the largest US lynching ever recorded.

F1: Hamilton wins after Leclerc failure

Lewis Hamilton inherits victory in the Bahrain Grand Prix after an engine problem hits runaway leader Charles Leclerc's Ferrari.

Ukraine comedian 'leads' in presidential election

Volodymyr Zelenskiy played the president on TV - an exit poll has him ahead in the the first round.

Algeria protests: Tycoon Ali Haddad 'arrested at Tunisia border'

Ali Haddad is a long-time backer of embattled President Bouteflika who is facing calls to step down.

Pope Francis visits Morocco

Highlights of the pontiff's weekend visit to the overwhelmingly Muslim country.

IS defeat: British fighters emerge after fall of Baghuz

The BBC has the first broadcast interview with Hamza Parvez, an ex-police cadet turned extremist fighter.

Xenophobic attacks spark South African response

The foreign minister calls an urgent meeting after three die and 50 are forced to leave their homes.

Dismay after Trump moves to cut aid to Central America

The US president wants to cut aid to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras in order to stem migration.

Gaza violence: Crossings reopen after negotiated 'calm'

The move comes a day after several Palestinians were killed in clashes with Israeli forces.

Turkey local elections: Erdogan to fight for nation's confidence

With the country in an economic slump, the vote is widely seen as a referendum on the president.

North Korea says Madrid embassy raid was 'grave terror attack'

Pyongyang calls for an investigation and says it is watching rumours that the FBI played a role.

Saudi Arabia 'hacked Amazon boss's phone', says investigator

An investigator working for Jeff Bezos says Saudi Arabia accessed data on the Amazon boss's phone.

Ukraine election: Comedian is front runner ahead of first round

Petro Poroshenko is seeking re-election but the surprise front runner is comic Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

Tornado chasers face storm as lawsuit hits close to home

A lawsuit claims reckless behaviour by storm chasers before a fatal crash. Is there a wider problem?

US school shootings: Have drills gone too far?

One school apparently shot teachers "execution style" with pellets as part of a rehearsal for the real thing.

How Village People's cop Victor Willis aims to 'reboot' the group

Victor Willis, the pop group's former singer and songwriter, has overcome legal battles and rehab.

Is there an Austrian link to New Zealand mosque attacks?

The main suspect in the mosque massacre was familiar with Austria's far-right scene.

The Bollywood factor in India's election

A film about Prime Minister Modi is facing criticism for mythologising him ahead of a national vote.

Life after a devastating mining disaster

Brazil's Brumadinho dam disaster is having consequences in towns which are near similar dams.

Malawi's antibiotics crisis: Why the drugs don't work for some

In Malawi, doctors say resistance to antibiotics is making their work increasingly difficult.

Brazil judge overturns ban on Bolsonaro's coup celebration

A judge says marking the 1964 coup does not amount to rewriting history or hiding the truth.

Earth Hour: Switching off lights to highlight climate change

Some of the world's most famous landmarks are plunged into darkness to draw attention to climate change.

Mark Zuckerberg asks governments to help control internet content

Mark Zuckerberg writes an open letter calling for new laws to monitor internet content.

Christchurch attacks: NZ gun suspect 'complains of treatment'

The accused Christchurch mosque attacker says he is being deprived of prison rights, media say.

Afghan VP survives second assassination attempt

The Taliban say they tried to kill Gen Abdul Rashid Dostum, in an ambush in which a bodyguard died.

Pope calls on Moroccans to fight fanaticism

The pontiff is visiting Morocco, which has a small Catholic community, to promote inter-faith dialogue.

Afghanistan: Deadly flash floods destroy homes and lives

At least 32 people die as rains hit an area where drought forced many from their homes last year.

Thai baby elephants cheered as they escape mud pit

Six baby elephants who were stuck in steep muddy pit for two days are rescued by Thai park rangers.

Ethiopian Airlines crash: 'Pitch up, pitch up!'

Details are emerging of the final moments of the flight, which crashed six minutes after takeoff.

US-Mexico border: Migrants held as Trump threatens closure

Migrants forced to sleep outside as US border patrol claims processing facilities are overwhelmed.

Rolling Stones postpone North America tour over Mick Jagger illness

Mick Jagger's doctors have advised him not to travel.

Migrant ship hijacking: Three teenagers charged in Malta

The men have been accused of terrorist activity after seizing a tanker and sailing it to Malta.

Gaza rallies to mark 'Great Return' protest anniversary

The rallies on the border fence with Israel began a year ago and left at least 189 Palestinians dead.

Facebook to consider live video restrictions after NZ attacks

Chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg promises to explore restrictions on who can live-stream video.

Muses no more: Ballet's newest choreographers

After centuries of taking orders now women are the ones calling the shots in ballet.

Food faux pas: Is there a right way to cut a bagel?

A debate is raging online about the correct way to cut a bagel. We asked Americans for their reactions to other food faux pas.

New audio increases pressure on Trudeau in SNC-Lavalin affair

Former Canadian Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould releases a recording to bolster her version of events.

Mozambique cyclone: 'I hope that help arrives soon'

Two weeks on from Cyclone Idai, BBC's Nomsa Maseko reports on the on-going problems in Mozambique.

Trump threatens to shut Mexico border following migration surge

Mexico's president said he would not be drawn into confrontation and the threats were down to politics.

Slovakia: Zuzana Caputova front runner in presidential election

If elected, political newcomer Zuzana Caputova will be Slovakia's first female president.

New emperor, new era: How a single word defines Japan

In Japan, time is marked by the reigns of emperors - and the country is about to start a new era.

Winter in LA: The joy of rain in a city famed for its sunshine

The BBC's Dan Johnson was expecting a hot, dry, sunny climate when he was posted to California. That's not how things worked out.

UK fashion brands battle for China's growing market

UK fashion designers are chasing business in Shanghai - one of Asia's biggest fashion weeks.

Letter from Africa: Fighting 'uniform hairstyles' in Kenya

Amid a court case about discrimination on the basis of a hairstyle, what's the state of Kenyan hair?

Brazil: Bolsonaro's coup celebration barred by judge

The judge said the celebration was not "compatible with the process of democratic reconstruction".

Indigenous Australians turned away from Adelaide Oval AFL match

Adelaide Oval said that instructions were misinterpreted by staff and it has since apologised.

Documents increase pressure on Canada's PM

Jody Wilson-Raybould has released documents and audio related to the SNC-Lavalin affair.

Russia police probe 'dark net' murder case

Investigators are looking into claims that a killing was arranged and paid for via covert net forums.

Mueller report into Russian interference to be released

US Attorney General William Barr says that "everyone will soon be able to read it on their own".

Gaza's disability crisis

After a year of protests at Gaza's border fence with Israel, Palestinians are suffering life-changing injuries

Venezuela crisis: Red Cross 'set to supply crucial aid'

Aid could start in two weeks, the group says, but there is no official confirmation from ministers.

Vietnam students invent air cleaning bicycle

High school students in Vietnam create a bike device that cleans the air for the cyclist.

Lyft shares surge over 20% in market debut

The ride-hailing company's shares jump 21% in the much anticipated flotation.

Agnes Varda: Influential film-maker dies at 90

Agnes Varda, who has died aged 90, spoke to the BBC's Talking Movies in December.

Bangladesh fire: Emergency exits in Dhaka high-rise 'were locked'

At least 25 people were killed in the fire that engulfed the tower block in Bangladesh on Thursday.

Grand Canyon: Tourist plunges to his death taking photos

There have been two separate deaths reported at the tourist attraction this week.

Mexico pioneers recycled seaweed shoes

A Mexican inventor is making recyclable shoes from plastic bottles and seaweed.

Paris attacks: Jawad Bendaoud jailed for sheltering jihadists

Jawad Bendaoud, who lent his flat to two jihadists, is sentenced on appeal to four years in prison.

George Clooney calls for hotel boycott over Brunei LGBT laws

The actor urges a boycott after the country said homosexuality would soon be punishable by death.

Italy coalition in bitter row over sexual violence law

The populist government argues over revenge porn and chemical castration for sex offenders.

Algeria: protesters renew calls for regime change

Protesters take to the streets days after the army called for the removal of President Bouteflika.

Meet the rare tiger cubs making their debut at Sydney Zoo

The 10-week-old cubs - one male and two females - belong to a critically endangered sub-species.

Portugal baby born to woman brain dead for three months

Catarina Sequeira was declared brain dead after having an acute asthma attack three months ago.

NSA contractor pleads guilty to data theft

The former programmer could get a jail sentence of nine years for stealing terabytes of sensitive data.

Egyptian activist Alaa Abdel Fattah released from jail after five years

The family of Alaa Abdel Fattah, who was jailed in 2013 for protesting, say he has been freed.

Boxer's kiss 'unwelcome and unlawful'

A female reporter calls for boxing chiefs to suspend Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev's licence after he "forcibly" kisses her on the lips during an interview.

Ukraine's presidential elections: five things to know

The seventh presidential elections in Ukraine will take place on 31 March.

Agnes Varda: Influential film director dies at 90

Agnes Varda was one of Europe's most acclaimed film-makers, with films like Cleo from 5 to 7.

Rammstein video: German rock band causes outrage with Nazi clip

The nine-minute-long video features band members dressed up as Nazi concentration camp prisoners

Tom Hiddleston: Why China loves the 'creepy' Centrum ad

Hiddleston plays the role of a caring partner in an advertisement that has got Chinese women hooked.

Norway's Kon-Tiki museum to return Easter Island artefacts

Thousands of artefacts were taken from the Chilean island by famous explorer Thor Heyerdahl in 1956.

Boeing Ethiopia crash probe 'finds anti-stall device activated'

A flight-control feature activated before the Ethiopian Airlines plane crashed, a report says.

Saravana Bhavan: India 'dosa king' life sentence upheld

P Rajagopalan was convicted for planning the murder of one of his employees.

Jussie Smollett: Actor ordered to pay $130,000 to cover police time

The Empire actor is given seven days to pay costs for his assault case, which was dropped this week.

'Russian hoax is finally dead', Trump tells Michigan rally

The US president rails against opponents at first political rally since the Mueller report.

Maria Ressa: Philippine journalist is arrested again

Founder of Rappler news website Maria Ressa is detained at Manila airport on fraud charges.

Duo in Liverpool band Her's killed in US car crash

The duo from Liverpool and their tour manager died in a car accident on the way to a gig in California.

Slovakia election: Liberal Caputova bucks Europe's populist trend

Zuzana Caputova is new to Slovak politics, but she is the front-runner in Saturday's presidential poll.

Trump backs off proposed Special Olympics funding cuts

Mr Trump faced backlash after his education secretary defended slashing $17.6m from the organisation.

World first as living HIV patient donates kidney in US

In a breakthrough, US doctors successfully transplant a kidney from one HIV-positive patient to another

Conmen posed as French foreign minister to steal €8 million, police say

Police say three men built an exact replica of the minister's office in order to con a businessman.

Christchurch attacks: National remembrance service held

Cat Stevens is among performers at a memorial for the 50 people killed in two mosque shootings.

Russian space pioneer Valery Bykovsky dies aged 84

Valery Bykovsky, who holds the record for the longest solo spaceflight in history, dies aged 84.

Justin Trudeau sorry for 'thank you' remark to protester

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau says his remark to an indigenous protester "lacked respect".

Climate change: Global impacts 'accelerating' - WMO

The World Meteorological Organization says that the physical and financial impacts of global warming are speeding up.

College admissions scandal: Ex-Yale football coach pleads guilty to fraud

Former Yale coach Rudy Meredith was one of 50 people charged in the college admissions scandal.

Venezuela crisis: Guaidó banned from office for 15 years

Venezuela's state comptroller says the opposition leader's financial statements are questionable.

Saudi women's rights activists temporarily released

The three, named as Eman al-Nafjan, Aziza al-Yousef and Roqaya al-Mohareb, still face jail terms.

Venezuela crisis: Russia hits out at 'boorish' Trump

The US president said Russia should "get out" of Venezuela after the deployment of its troops there.

Farkhad Akhmedov wins $436m superyacht in divorce fight

Russian businessman Farkhad Akhmedov wins back his vessel in a Dubai court.

Pope says ring-kiss recoil was 'question of hygiene'

A video of the Pope pulling his hand away from worshippers attempting to kiss his ring went viral.

'Give us our social media back'

Activists in Chad are demanding that the government restore access to social media after it was cut a year ago.

Facebook charged with home discrimination through targeted ads

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development says Facebook limits who can see house adverts.

Russia mayor sworn in with Star Wars tune in Belgorod

The city's cultural chief quits over the musical mix-up - but the new mayor is unfazed.

R. Kelly accuser breaks silence: 'I'm not ashamed any more'

Hairdresser Lanita Carter says watching R. Kelly's explosive TV interview prompted her to speak out.

Jussie Smollett: Donald Trump says case is 'embarrassment'

The US president says the FBI will be investigating after all charges were dropped against the actor.

Ex-spy linked to Congo assassination plot found dead

French police say the death of a man linked to a plot to kill an opponent of Congo's president was a "hit".

Scientology church shooting: Man with sword shot dead in LA

Two police officers were wounded by gunfire during the fatal shooting in Los Angeles.

Garfield phones beach mystery finally solved after 35 years

For years, novelty phones appear on Brittany's beaches - but the source is finally found.

Salesforce.com sued over links to trafficking site

The software firm is accused of helping a site known to be involved in the trafficking of women.

Grindr 'up for sale on security grounds'

The app's Chinese owner, Kunlun Group, is reportedly seen as a security risk by US authorities.

Ebola disbelief widespread in DR Congo hotspots

The study's authors say mistrust of health workers is making it much harder to tackle the disease.

Rap song erased from US country chart

Lil Nas X’s Old Town Road was in the top 20 until chart compilers decided it wasn't country enough.

'World's longest salt cave' discovered in Israel

The cave is near the desert site where the Bible says Lot’s wife was turned into a pillar of salt

Bangladesh fire: Huge blaze hits Banani building in Dhaka

Dozens of people are feared trapped inside a high-rise office block in the Bangladeshi capital.

Hakeem al-Araibi: Refugee footballer describes 'torture'

Hakeem al-Araibi was held in Bangkok for two months as his native Bahrain sought his extradition.

Iceland's Wow airline collapses

The carrier says it has ceased operations and passengers should book with other airlines.

Migrant ship capture: Maltese armed forces take control of hijacked tanker

A special operations team seizes the tanker hijacked by migrants who did not want to return to Libya.

Two killed in 'senseless act' after gunman opens fire on Seattle street

A man shot at drivers and at a bus in what police describe as a "random, senseless act".

Woman gives birth, has twins a month later

Doctors in Bangladesh performed a Caesarean on her after discovering she had twins in a second uterus.

Austria considers disbanding far-right group over donation from NZ suspect

Authorities confirm far-right leader Martin Sellner received money from Christchurch mosque attack suspect.

Mission Shakti: Space debris warning after India destroys satellite

US says it is studying an anti-satellite weapon test, which India says has made it a space power.

California tests earthquake alerts

People in Downtown Oakland, California received the first public earthquake alert in the US.

Facebook to ban white nationalism and separatism

The social media firm is under pressure after the New Zealand mosque attack was live-streamed.

Boeing announces fixes for its 737 Max aircraft

The US planemaker is making cockpit alterations in the plane model involved in two fatal crashes.

'Fake' Botticelli painting is the real deal, English Heritage says

A supposed copy of a 15th Century masterpiece is actually found to have been created in his studio.

Venezuela crisis: Guaidó calls on supporters to take to streets over blackouts

The opposition leader urges supporters to take to the street as blackouts worsen a national crisis.

Indonesia foils Komodo dragon smuggling gang

Five reptiles are rescued along with other endangered animals as police make arrests in East Java.

Can you stop your parents sharing photos of you online?

Gwyneth Paltrow shared a photo of her daughter Apple without her permission - was she wrong?

Chicago Symphony Orchestra musicians go on strike

The musicians in the Chicago Symphony Orchestra go on strike over pay and the future of their pension program.

India space: Has the country become a superpower in the stars?

Why is India in space and what is it doing there? BBC Reality Check takes a look.

Internet access in Africa - Are mesh networks the future?

Residents in a rural South African community get cheap online access from a network they own and run.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Mike Lee talk 'Green New Deal'

Star Wars and climate change - two lawmakers deliver very different views on the "Green New Deal".

Charlottesville murderer Fields pleads guilty to hate crimes

James Alex Fields was jailed last December after driving his car into a crowd of counter-protesters.

Rescued migrants hijack merchant ship near Libya - reports

More than 100 migrants are said to have acted after they were told they be taken back to Libya.

Viking Sky: Engine failure blamed on 'low oil levels'

Norwegian authorities say shortage led to an automatic engine shutdown to prevent a full breakdown.

Explaining the US measles outbreak

According to officials there are 314 cases of measles currently reported in the US.

Burundi girls held for defacing president's photo freed

The charges against the three schoolgirls, accused of "insulting the head of state", still stand.

Lithuania convicts Russians of Soviet-era war crimes

A former Soviet defence minister is among those convicted in absentia over a bloody 1991 crackdown.

Time-lapse captures Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano erupting

Webcam footage shows one of Mexico's most active volcanoes spewing out molten lava and gas.

Youth minister tells child rapper to hang up his mike

A Ugandan MP has said that the child rapper Fresh Kid is working illegally.

British-Canadian AI expert Geoffrey Hinton wins Turing Award

Geoffrey Hinton shares this year's award with two other leading figures in artificial intelligence.

Jussie Smollett: Mayor says case makes Chicago look foolish

The Empire actor, who escaped hate hoax charges, "abused the city of Chicago", says the city leader.

French Roma attacked over false 'man in van' kidnap rumours

The spectre of a suspicious foreigner in a white van has resulted in violence against France's Roma.

Austria police arrest IS plot suspect in Vienna raid

The suspected Islamic State supporter is believed to have tried to derail trains in Germany.

Entebbe pilot Michel Bacos who stayed with hostages dies

Michel Bacos was hailed a hero for refusing to abandon his passengers during the 1976 hostage crisis.

Rafael Henzel, Chapecoense plane crash survivor, dies after football game

Rafael Henzel, who survived the Brazilian team's plane crash, has a heart attack playing football.

Cardi B defends 'drugging and robbing' men

The rapper says "I did what I had to do to survive" while working as a stripper before finding fame.

Weather Channel sued for $125m over storm chase death

The lawsuit alleges two Weather Channel workers hit a storm spotter while chasing a tornado.

Vatican women editors resign from women's magazine

They cited a campaign to discredit them and put them "under the direct control of men".

Meng Hongwei: China to prosecute former Interpol chief

Meng Hongwei, who was arrested while visiting China last year, is accused of taking bribes

Climate change: Drilling in 'Iceberg Alley'

The huge blocks of ice that drift away from Antarctica have a story to tell about Earth's past - and its future.

UK man arrested fleeing Australia on jet ski, police say

He almost reached Papua New Guinea before being captured on a remote island, police say.

Indian police seize $80m 'bribes' in election raids

Indian elections are notorious for bribery - voters are wooed with cash, alcohol and freebies.

The first ever non-stop balloon flight across the globe

The first ever non-stop balloon flight across the globe

Austrian far-right activist probed over links to Christchurch attacks

Police investigate a donation to Martin Sellner, possibly from the suspect in the Christchurch attacks.

Road safety: EU plans vehicle speed limiters from 2022

The UK is urged to adopt similar rules to those provisionally approved by the EU, even after Brexit.

New York county declares measles outbreak emergency

Unvaccinated children are barred from public spaces after 153 cases in Rockland County, New York.

Cathay Pacific to buy budget airline Hong Kong Express

The airline will pay $628m for Hong Kong Express, a low-cost carrier which operates flights across Asia.

Children's joy at seeing dolls that look like them

A former social worker noticed that some children could not buy dolls that look like them. So she fixed that.

Where is the Islamic State group still active around the world?

Iraq and Syria continue to see the most IS attacks, but the group is active in many other countries.

India election 2019: PM Narendra Modi's Tamil Nadu problem

Narendra Modi has been trying to connect with voters in Tamil Nadu. But is it working?

Ukraine election: Will comic outsider beat 38 others?

A comedian livens up Ukraine's presidential election, as many voters feel let down by politicians.

The two sides in the Jussie Smollett case

The star insists he's been truthful, but Chicago's mayor calls dropping all charges a "whitewash of justice".

Longleat: Koala conservation scheme 'working despite death'

Longleat Safari Park says its project is still helping koalas despite criticism after one animal died.

Female rally champion Tuta Mionki on driving change

Kenyan rally navigator Tuta Mionki is making history with her success in a male-dominated sport.

Yemen hospital strike: Seven killed at Kitaf facility

The missile strike left staff and children dead at the medical facility, says Save the Children.

Islamic State group: What next for the families?

Kurdish authorities in northern Syria are struggling to cope with the thousands of captured IS families.

Italy bus attack: Salvini approves hero's citizenship

Ramy Shehata, 13, alerted police after the driver allegedly threatened to kill 51 children.

Venezuela crisis: Day off as fresh power cuts shut down services

Power cuts have hit most of the nation, closing down hospitals, public transport and water supply.

Russian protestor first to be fined under Russian law

An 18-year-old man was found guilty of encouraging minors to take part in an illegal protest.

Is Pope Francis kissing goodbye to ring tradition?

On Monday, the Pontiff snapped his hand away from 19 people trying to kiss the ring on his hand.

Jussie Smollett: 'I have been truthful since day one'

Actor Jussie Smollett speaks after prosecutors drop all charges for allegedly staging a racist and homophobic attack.

North Korea's Madrid embassy intruder contacted FBI, judge says

The leader of a break-in at North Korea's embassy in Spain contacted the FBI, a Spanish judge says.

African migration: Five things we've learnt

Many young people want to leave but often for other African countries, a new survey shows.

Pope's ring-kissing controversy not what it seems

A widely-shared video shows the Pope recoiling from the faithful - but there's more to the story.

Kyrgyz debate renaming capital

Proposal to rename Kyrgyz capital city meets cool reception.

Horned pit viper and tree frogs found at Indian airport

Nine boxes of rare animals were taken from a passenger by customs officials at Chennai airport in India.

Charges against Jussie Smollett 'dropped'

Prosecutors drop charges against actor Jussie Smollett which alleged he staged a homophobic attack - US media

Purdue Pharma settles opioid lawsuit for $270m

The drug company owned by the wealthy Sackler dynasty is facing 2,000 claims over its painkiller.

Elephant in 'bad mood' joins commute in Chinese town

The animal wrecked several cars in the Chinese city of Meng’a after being forced out of its herd.

Algeria army urges removal of President Abdelaziz Bouteflika

Algeria army chief calls for President Bouteflika to be declared unfit to rule, in TV address after weeks of unrest

Yale revokes student's admission over '$1.2m bribe'

The family was allegedly part of the same scheme as celebrities Lori Laughlin and Felicity Huffman.

Kvitova knifeman jailed for eight years

Her playing left hand was severely injured after the attack in 2016.

Helicopters help combat Baku shopping centre fire

The fire broke out at a five-storey shopping mall in Azerbaijan’s capital Baku.

Indonesia theme park censors mermaid statues' breasts

The mermaid statues' breasts are covered with a golden chest wrap at Jakarta's Ancol Dreamland.

Royal Albert Hall singer asked to change 'pro-EU' dress

Opera singer Anna Patalong had chosen to wear a yellow dress, featuring a blue sash with yellow stars.

New Zealand bridge washed away in heavy storm

Dramatic footage has emerged of a traffic bridge on the South Island being washed away in a storm.

EU backs controversial copyright law

348 politicians voted in favour of the Copyright Directive

Manet, Picasso and Cezanne works renamed after black models

Black models are finally centre stage in an exhibition of masterpieces at Paris's Musée d'Orsay.

Euro MPs vote on ending summer time

EU states may be able to abolish daylight saving time, which is currently mandatory.

Snowden helper arrives in Canada after being granted asylum

Edward Snowden has thanked Canada for resettling a mother and daughter who sheltered him in Hong Kong.

Nawaz Sharif: Pakistan ex-PM granted bail for health reasons

The ex-leader, jailed for corruption, has been released for six weeks to receive medical treatment.

Breast ironing: 'I remember screaming a lot'

A woman tells of the pain she experienced as a child being subjected to breast ironing.

Islamic State group: Syria's Kurds call for international tribunal

The Kurdish-led administration in northern Syria says it is overwhelmed with thousands of jihadists.

Thailand election: Thaksin alleges 'irregularities'

The former Thai PM alleges to BBC Thai that there were "a lot of irregularities" in Sunday's election.

Stolen Picasso portrait of Dora Maar found after 20 years

The painting, Buste de Femme (Dora Maar), was stolen from a Saudi sheikh's yacht in 1999.

Fart bullying case: Engineer contests A$1.8m court ruling

David Hingst says his boss at a Melbourne firm caused "stress" by breaking wind six times a day.

Nirav Modi: Billionaire's art to be auctioned

Indian diamond trader Nirav Modi was arrested in the UK and is wanted in India for alleged bank fraud.

In pictures: Kenyan artist Khadambi Asalache's London house

The house of Kenyan artist Khadambi Asalache has become London's newest museum.

Nasa's first all-female spacewalk scrapped over spacesuit sizes

The US space agency cites the lack of medium-size spacesuits that fit best female astronauts.

Venezuela crisis: Fresh power cuts black out Caracas

Two major electricity cuts in just a few hours plunge Caracas into darkness.

Conor McGregor: Ex-UFC champion announces retirement

Former two-weight UFC champion Conor McGregor says he has decided to retire from the sport.

Australian gun laws: One Nation party 'sought NRA money' in US

The minor One Nation party discussed softening Australia's strict gun laws with the NRA, videos show.

Thailand election: Evidence of ‘irregularities’ says ex-PM Thaksin

The former PM, who remains influential, told the BBC he was worried by the election process.

US-Mexico border wall: Pentagon authorises $1bn transfer

President Trump declared a national emergency to bypass Congress and divert funds for the project.

Joshua Boyle: Canadian ex-hostage in court on assault charges

Former Taliban hostage Joshua Boyle's estranged wife is one of the alleged victims, a court hears.

Airbus secures multi-billion dollar jet order from China

It comes as rival Boeing works to rebuild confidence in its 737 Max aircraft after two fatal crashes.

Mexico demands apology from Spain and the Vatican over conquest

President López Obrador says the indigenous peoples were subjected to human rights abuses.

Brexit debate: Do petitions ever work?

More than five million people have signed a petition against Brexit - but do petitions ever work?

The amateur sleuth who searched for a body - and found one

An indigenous mother goes missing in North Dakota. Why did it take a volunteer group to bring her home?

‘Exonerated’: Arkansans celebrate Mueller report’s findings

Enthusiasm for the president has not dimmed in Russellville, where locals cheer an "exonerated" Mr Trump.

How a Chinese firm fell victim to intellectual property theft

Business owner Frank Liu, a victim of IP theft, says ideas should be protected like "human rights".

Is China's fishing fleet taking all of West Africa's fish?

The BBC investigates illegal and unsustainable fishing off the west coast of Africa to find out how one of the most fertile ecosystems on earth has been pushed to the brink.

The ex-poachers saving snow leopards in Russia

In Sailugemsky National Park, snow leopards have found an unlikely ally - ex-poachers

All you need to know about Michael Avenatti's arrest

The ex-lawyer for Stormy Daniels has been arrested for allegedly trying to extort Nike for $20m.

Flash floods kill at least 17 in southern Iran

Flood warnings have been issued in almost all provinces including the capital Tehran.

Ethiopian Airlines 'sticking with Boeing'

Chief executive Tewolde Gebremariam says the firms will be linked "well into the future".

Viewpoint: Mueller called it (largely) right on Trump

For millions of Americans, the release of Mueller's findings hit hard, says law professor Jonathan Turley.

Apple launches its own credit card and TV shows

The tech giant confirmed that it was branching out into personal finance and TV streaming at a live event in the US.

Sandy Hook victim's father apparently took his own life

Police say the father of a girl who was killed in the 2012 shooting appears to have taken his own life.

Iran flood: Dozens killed and homes damaged after heavy rain

People have died and homes have been damaged after heavy rains caused severe flooding across Iran.

Michael Avenatti: Stormy Daniels lawyer accused of fraud

Michael Avenatti is charged with trying to extort more than $20m from sports apparel giant Nike.

US v China: Lessons from ancient Greek historian Thucydides

Thucydides lived more than 2,400 years ago. So what's he got to say about US-China relations?

Trump hints at payback for 'evil' enemies over Mueller report

Speaking in the Oval Office, Mr Trump says no other president should face such "a false narrative".

Golan Heights: Trump signs order recognising occupied area as Israeli

The US leader signs a presidential declaration with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his side.

Fairground workers riot in French city of Le Mans

Riot police battle protesters angry at not being allowed to set up stall in the centre of Le Mans.

Israel strikes Hamas targets in Gaza after rocket hits house

Israel blamed the militant group Hamas after seven people were injured in a rocket attack.

Riders fight during motorbike race

Riders Marion Calvo and Jorge Martinez have been banned from racing for two years after fighting on the track at Costa Rica's National Motorbike Championship.

#FreeOurGirls: Twitter users back detained Burundi schoolgirls

Three Burundian schoolgirls were arrested for defacing a photo of President Pierre Nkurunziza.

Beyoncé and Jay-Z help boost Louvre visitors in 2018

The museum partly attributes a record-breaking year to a music video filmed in front of the Mona Lisa.

Cesare Battisti: Italian ex-militant admits to murders

The former member of a far-left group is being held in Italy after living for decades on the run.

Saudi Arabia sisters given humanitarian visa and leave Hong Kong

The women, aged 18 and 20, say they spent six months hiding in Hong Kong after fleeing their family.

Costa Rica motorbike race erupts into trackside fight

The fight broke out mid-race while other riders in the Costa Rican national championship rode past

Greek PM says Turkish jets 'harassed' his helicopter

Alexis Tsipras said Turkish fighter jets entered Greek airspace on independence day

Reimann family firm reveals Nazi slave past in Germany

The Reimanns - big investors in popular consumer brands - discover dark links to the Nazi period.

Mali attack: Behind the Dogon-Fulani violence in Mopti

Dogon-Fulani tensions have existed for a while but what is behind the increase in communal killings?

Gaza rocket: Seven hurt as Israeli home is destroyed

Seven people, including three children, are injured as a rocket lands north of the city of Tel Aviv.

Russian top cop faces down Sherlock gags

Russia's chief investigator used a magnifying glass to view his laptop to much online amusement.

Caster Semenya: UN criticises 'humiliating' rule

The United Nations says plans to classify female athletes by their testosterone levels, put forward by athletics' governing body, "contravene international human rights".

'Historic day' - French-German parliament meets

One hundred politicians from France and Germany meet for their first joint parliamentary session.

Chinese student Wangzhen Lu kidnapped in Canadian car park

Police say there was a "significant" level of violence involved. The motive remains unknown.

Dr Dre removes university boast post about daughter

He said his daughter got in to USC 'all on her own' but was criticised over large college donation.

Scott Walker: A life in music in pictures

The star, who has died aged 76, first found fame in the 1960s with The Walker Brothers.

Africa Eye: On the front line of Nigeria’s energy crisis

Meet the men and women connecting - and sometimes disconnecting - residents of the city of Port Harcourt.

Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal steps down amid crisis

Naresh Goyal had previously refused to step down from the cash-strapped airline.

Mueller report: Trump triumphant after being cleared of collusion

The US president claims he was exonerated by Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation.

From concert halls of Venezuela to busking

Rosana Garcia once played the violin in a philharmonic orchestra in Venezuela. Now she is busking on the streets of Bogota.

Rock enigma Scott Walker dies aged 76

Scott Walker, one of the most enigmatic and influential figures in rock history, has died aged 76.

British no more: UK citizens face Brexit dilemma

Austria rarely allows dual citizenship, and for some Britons this is a problem.

Seven injured as Gaza rocket hits home in central Israel

It is the furthest a Palestinian rocket has reached in Israel since a 2014 conflict in Gaza.

Asia stocks: Markets sink as global growth jitters spread

Investors dumped Asian stocks in favour of safer bonds as concerns about the global economy spread.

Christchurch attack: New Zealand's Ardern orders top-level inquiry

Jacinda Ardern orders the highest level of public inquiry to examine if more could have been done.

Cyclone Veronica: Destructive winds and rain lash Australia

Cyclone Veronica has brought destructive winds and torrential rains, prompting safety warnings.

Venezuela crisis: Russian military planes land near Caracas

About 100 troops and large amounts of equipment were offloaded from the planes, reports say.

Delhi Crime: New drama tells story of bus rape investigation

A new series follows the woman who led the investigation into a brutal attack that shocked the world.

The woman bringing Mandarin to Uganda

Wang Li Hong Sooma wants secondary schools students in Uganda to be able to speak China's dominant language.

What's happening this week?

Our round-up of the world's most interesting news events of the next seven days.

'Muslims don't date, we marry'

The British entrepreneur who has set up a global dating app specifically for Muslims.

'At 11 years old, my dad sold me for sex'

After years of abuse, Kayti shares the horrors she lived through in a US town and how she finally got out.

Might this Nazi-stolen painting be returned?

The Uffizi Gallery has replaced it with a copy, and the exact location of the original is a mystery.

Mueller report: One summary, two interpretations

Top Democrat warns of a "hasty and partisan" summary and wants Robert Mueller's full report published.

Mueller report a 'complete exoneration'

There was no collusion with Russia and no obstruction in his US presidential campaign, Donald Trump says.

Thailand election: Pro-military political party takes lead

The Palang Pracha Rath Party gains more than seven million votes, preliminary election results show.

Trump 'did not conspire with Russia'

President Trump's campaign "did not conspire" with Russia during 2016 election, Robert Mueller's report says

Cycle helmet safety campaign with scantily clad models sparks storm

An attempt by the German transport ministry to mix sex with cycle helmets meets a mixed response.

Italy home circumcision kills child

The five-month-old boy was airlifted to hospital but died after the intervention by his parents.

Kenyan science teacher Peter Tabichi wins global prize

A science teacher who gives most of his salary to support poor pupils wins the Global Teacher Prize.

MLS side Real Salt Lake name team by favourite pizza topping

MLS side Real Salt Lake name their team by favourite pizza topping.

Morocco teachers protest over working conditions

The protesters are demanding permanent contracts and better working conditions.

Euro 2020: Georgia opponent rushes to Swiss player's aid

Swiss player Fabian Schaer lay unconscious with his tongue stuck down his throat at the Euro 2020 qualifier.

Comoros islanders vote in presidential election

The archipelago stops the system of rotating the presidency around the three main islands every five years.

Yellow vest protests: Injured protester's family to press charges

The 73-year-old woman was seriously injured at a banned yellow vest protest in Nice.

Cyclone Idai: What the aftermath looks like

BBC reporter Pumza Fihlani gives a glimpse of what the trail of destruction in Mozambique looks like.

Norway cruise ship heads to port after passenger airlifts

The vessel got into difficult off Norway's coast and hundreds of passengers were airlifted off.

In pictures: The lifeguards of Lagos

The men who watch over the Atlantic Ocean, saving the lives of the swimmers of Nigeria's main city.

Huge fossil discovery made in China's Hubei province

The fossils found on a river bank in eastern China are estimated to be about 518 million years old.

Mueller report: US Congress awaits key findings from Attorney General Barr

The Attorney General is expected to submit key conclusions from the report on Sunday.

Protesters take to streets of Pittsburgh after policeman acquitted of killing black teen

Shots fired at defence lawyer's officer amid protest over acquittal of Pittsburgh officer who shot black teen.

Thailand votes in first post-coup election

The military says the vote will restore democracy, but it is expected to remain influential.

Kosovo war: The conflict that won't go away

It's been 20 years since Nato bombed Serbia, ending the Kosovo war. But for some, the war lives on.

Iceland embraces bleak message for Eurovision

The band are called Hater. Their lyrics are dark and political and they want to cause a stir at Eurovision.

SNC-Lavalin affair: Five quotes that sum up the Trudeau crisis

The Canadian prime minister has been struggling to contain a political crisis for more than a month.

How Pope Francis could shape the future of robotics

Pope Francis hosts discussions on the future of robotics and ethics at the Vatican in Rome.

Cyclone Idai: How prepared was southern Africa?

The tropical cyclone took governments by surprise and caused widespread destruction across the region.

Mongolia: A toxic warning to the world

A cities are grappling with air pollution but the small capital of Mongolia is suffering from some of the worst in the world.

Why this is unlikely to be the end of Islamic State

IS forces have been driven out of their last stronghold, but BBC Arabic's Feras Kilani says this is unlikely to be the end of the group.

Rafi Eitan: Mossad spy who captured Adolf Eichmann dies

Rafi Eitan was a Mossad spy who led the team that captured Nazi Adolf Eichmann in Argentina in 1960.

Trump vows to 'crush' remaining Islamic State group militants

The Islamic State group remains a threat, the US president says, after its five-year "caliphate" ends.

Airlift rescue of cruise ship passengers off Norway coast

MV Viking Sky sent out a distress signal amid high waves and strong winds off the coast of Norway.

Dozens of Mali villagers killed by gunmen

Attackers dressed as traditional hunters target Fulani villagers in the Mopti region, reports say.

Is this the end for Islamic State?

As US-backed forces say the militants have been defeated, Paul Adams looks at whether the group could still cause damage.

ICYMI: Escape from an avalanche and a tidy mouse

A look at some of the stories you may have missed this week.

Exoplanet tally set to pass 4,000 mark

The number of planets detected around other stars - or exoplanets - is set to hit the 4,000 mark.

Michael Jackson: Barbra Streisand criticised for abuse comments

Barbra Streisand says she believes the abuse claims but said it "didn't kill" the victims.

Policeman Michael Rosfeld acquitted of killing black teen

Michael Rosfeld shot the unarmed 17-year-old Antwon Rose in the back as he tried to flee police.

LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers out of play-off race - what has gone wrong?

LeBron James will not be playing in the NBA play-offs for the first time since 2005 - what has gone wrong for the Los Angeles Lakers this season?

Norway cruise ship evacuated after engine problems

About 1,300 people are being evacuated from the cruise ship after it suffered engine trouble.

Smuggled orangutan seized at Bali airport

A Russian is arrested on suspicion of trying to take it back home to keep as a pet.

Italy joins China's New Silk Road project

Italy is the first G7 country to sign up to China's global investment programme, despite Western concerns.

Pete Buttigieg: Why would an American learn Norwegian?

"Mayor Pete" can speak seven languages but for other presidential wannabes, being bilingual is not always a plus.

Jet Airways: The riches to rags story of India's oldest private airline

The airline was once the shining face of Indian aviation, but now it is struggling to survive.

Why are nets appearing over trees and hedges?

High-profile nature lovers including broadcaster Chris Packham have criticised developers for promoting the practice.

Dad of bus crash victim: 'I feel horribly for my son's killer'

Jaskirat Singh Sidhu was sentenced to eight years in jail a year after killing 16 people in a bus crash.

Cyclone Idai: More bodies under floodwater - UN

At least 417 people have now been declared dead in Mozambique a week after it was hit by a deadly storm.

China chemical blast: Survivor found but toll rises again

Firefighters pull a man from the rubble days on from the explosion but the death toll rises again.

Lionel Messi's return for Argentina ends in 3-1 defeat against Venezuela

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi makes a disappointing return to Argentina duty as he was injured in a 3-1 defeat by Venezuela.

Caliphate defeated but IS remains a threat

Maps and charts following the rise and fall of so-called Islamic State (IS) in Iraq and Syria.

Islamic State group defeated as final territory lost, US-backed forces say

US-backed forces declare the territorial defeat of the IS, but the group is said to remain a major threat.

Christchurch attacks: Al-Noor mosque reopens to worshippers

Small groups are let in to the Al-Noor mosque where dozens of people were killed on 15 March.

German police arrest 10 people on suspicion of planning terror attacks

Ten men are detained on suspicion of planning to carry out an Islamist terror attack, police say.

US disaster relief agency exposed private data of 2.3m survivors

Fema admits accidentally sharing 2.3 million people's addresses and bank details.

China chemical plant explosion: 'The blast smashed it all'

Dozens have died and hundreds of people were injured in the explosion at a chemical plant in eastern China.

Russia-Trump inquiry: Special Counsel Robert Mueller ends Russia investigation

The special counsel's report on alleged Russian election meddling is with the Department of Justice.

Cyclone Idai: Cholera cases reported in storm-hit Mozambique

Cases are reported in the flooded port city of Beira, a week after it was hit by a deadly cyclone.

Trump withdraws new North Korea sanctions

The US president refers to "additional large-scale sanctions" recently announced by the US Treasury.

Global markets fall amid slowdown fears

The FTSE 100 saw its worst day of trading this year, while US stock markets have also fallen sharply.

Utrecht shooting: Suspect Tanis admits deadly tram attack

Turkish-born Gokmen Tanis says he acted alone in the killing of three people.

YouTube face-off: Berlin police break up mass brawl

Pepper spray and tear gas are used to disperse crowds of fans of rival social media stars.

Yellow vests banned from Champs-Élysées after riots

Protesters have been banned from the famed avenue after riots in Paris last weekend.

Australians evacuate homes as cyclones Trevor and Veronica approach

A state of emergency is declared as thousands evacuate their homes in northern and western Australia.

Jared Kushner 'used WhatsApp for official duties', top Democrat says

Democrat Elijah Cummings says the White House senior advisor used the messaging app for business.

Russian pilot's special relationship with rescued bear

The cub was found abandoned in 2016 and lives on a decommissioned Russian airbase.

Cyclone Idai: Zimbabwe's desperate search for the missing

Communities in Zimbabwe continue to search through rubble for family members missing after the storm.

Pompeo says God may have sent Trump to save Israel from Iran

The US secretary of state suggested divine intervention delivered Trump for the salvation of Israel.

Mississippi bans abortion after foetal heartbeat can be detected

The bill bans abortion after a heartbeat can be detected - often before a woman knows she is pregnant.

'We saw 200 bodies by the roadside'

A stranded motorist in Mozambique tells of the scene of devastation along the Beira to Chimoio highway.

Trumplomacy on Golan Heights: What it all means

What are the ramifications of the US endorsing Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights?

Imane Fadil death: No radioactivity in 'bunga bunga' model

Imane Fadil died in a Milan hospital and investigators are trying to find out what caused her death.

Venezuela crisis: Guaidó aide faces terrorism charges

The opposition leader's chief of staff Roberto Marrero is accused of planning "acts of sabotage”.

Ghana bus crash: Dozens killed after two buses collide in Bono East

Police say the vehicles were travelling in separate directions when the crash occurred.

Facebook staff 'flagged Cambridge Analytica fears earlier than thought'

Facebook says concerns raised about data-scraping were not related to the previously reported scandal.

Planet Jupiter: Spectacular picture of Jupiter's storms

Three images of Jupiter are combined to make a striking new image of the planet and its famous spot.

Dead whale 'had 40kg of plastic in its stomach'

The Cuvier's beaked whale was found in the Philippines, filled with 16 rice sacks and multiple shopping bags.

Brexit: What just happened?

The EU has agreed to delay Brexit but with conditions. What does it mean? And what may happen next?

Christchurch attack: Survivor recounts attack

Mazharuddin Syed Ahmed survived the Christchurch attack in which 50 people died.

Night parrot finding in Australia not backed up by evidence

Conservationists retract their findings, after evidence for the bird's discovery is disputed.

Afghanistan conflict: Two US soldiers killed on operation

The deaths double the number of US service members killed in Afghanistan this year.

Quiz of the Week: What's Belgium's fastest bird?

It's the weekly news quiz - have you been paying attention to what's been going on in the world during the past seven days?

The people killed as they prayed

The lives and stories of those killed in the two Christchurch mosque attacks.

Dr Jordan Peterson: Cambridge University fellowship rescinded

Dr Jordan Peterson's views on gender and race have been the subject of much criticism.

Simone Biles: Olympic champion expects Tokyo 2020 to be last Games

Simone Biles says minor injuries have led to her body "falling apart" and she expects Tokyo 2020 to be her final Olympics.

Cardi B applies to trademark 'Okurrr'

The star wants to use her catchphrase on merchandise, according to documents filed in the US.

Golan Heights: Syria condemns Donald Trump's remarks

Syria criticises the US president for saying it is time to recognise the occupied Golan as Israeli.

N Korea quits liaison office with S Korea

North Korea withdraws from inter-Korean liaison office opened last year to encourage talks with South Korea

The engineer who went to the USSR and got stuck for 50 years

In 1929, an African-American Ford engineer, Robert Robinson, was recruited to work in the USSR. He had to stay there, against his will, for nearly 50 years.

Garuda looks to scrap Boeing 737 Max 8 order after crashes

The airline has asked to cancel an order for 49 jets after the plane was involved in two fatal crashes.

Brexit: Three moments that raised a smile

Donald Tusk and Jean-Claude Juncker updated reporters at a press conference which had some lighter moments.

Christchurch shootings: 'Thank you for your tears...your love'

Imam Gamal Fouda thanks the people of New Zealand in a ceremony marking one week since the Christchurch attacks.

Uber 'picks New York Stock Exchange' for stock listing

The firm's public stock offering is expected in the coming months and may be one of the biggest in 2019.

Death toll soars in China chemical blast

The death toll in a huge blast at a chemical plant in eastern China jumps to 44, with 90 injured, state media say.

A guide to Thailand's post-coup election

The country is split between pro-military forces and their opponents in the first vote since a 2014 coup.

Should black Americans get slavery reparations?

What's the history behind the controversial policy and what have 2020 presidential contenders said?

How a bookshop wolf handles awkward customers

If you've ever worked in customer service, this comic about a wolf might resonate with you.

Cyclone Idai: What are the immediate dangers?

Aid agencies warn that it is becoming more dangerous, not less, in southern Africa after Cyclone Idai.

Yemen's ancient city where people escape civil war

Tens of thousands of Yemenis have died, but in amongst the conflict there is one place that’s prospering – the city of Marib.

Christchurch shootings: New Zealand to broadcast call to prayer

New Zealand holds a national day of reflection to mark a week since the Christchurch mosque attacks.

Christchurch shootings: Tributes paid to the victims

The victims of the Christchurch mosque shootings have been remembered at events throughout the week.

Justin Trudeau apologises for eating chocolate during vote

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was caught eating a chocolate bar during a vote in parliament.

Five former Stasi members quizzed over Lockerbie bombing

Individuals who worked for the East German intelligence service have been questioned as part of the ongoing inquiry.

Game of Thrones: Emilia Clarke's brain surgery ordeal

"Every minute of every day I thought I was going to die," said the actor, who suffered two aneurysms.

Coming soon... The Mueller Report

As the real-life US political drama nears its finale, here's a reminder of the saga's main characters.

Swiss boy stabbed to death in Basel after school

A 75-year-old woman is arrested after the seven-year-old boy died in hospital after being attacked.

Millions of Facebook passwords exposed internally

Developers working for Facebook logged the passwords in plain text as they wrote code for the site.

US to recognise Golan as Israeli territory

President Trump tweets that US will recognise Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights, seized from Syria in 1967 war

Harvard sued by 'descendant of slave for profiting off of photos'

The university continues to profit off of photos that belong to descendants of slaves, a lawsuit claims.

Christchurch shootings: How the haka unifies New Zealand in mourning

What does the Maori haka dance mean, and how is it linked to mourning the Christchurch victims?

France car thieves lured to police station

Two men were lured to a police station by a man whose car they were trying to steal north of Paris.

Michel Temer: Brazil ex-president arrested in Rio

Michel Temer has been arrested as part of a wide-ranging corruption investigation, local media say.

Iraq ferry sinking: Dozens feared dead near Mosul

Most of those on board the vessel that sank in a tourist area near Mosul could not swim, reports say.

Jay-Z album The Blueprint officially 'culturally important'

His sixth album The Blueprint is the first hip hop album of the 21st Century added to the archive.

Zambia bans 'Viagra' energy drink

Some consumers had complained about unwanted side-effects, prompting the authorities to investigate.

Texas chemical fire: Residents of Deer Park warned to stay indoors

Eight tanks at the chemical plant caught fire earlier this week.

China chemical plant explosion kills six in Yancheng

Another 30 people are injured in the explosion at a fertiliser-making facility in Yancheng.

Venezuela crisis: Juan Guaidó's chief of staff detained

Intelligence agents have raided the house of the opposition leader's chief of staff, legislators say.

Testosterone rules for female athletes 'unscientific'

There is a lack of evidence for the cut-off point adopted by athletics chiefs, a BMJ editorial says.

Excellent! Bill and Ted to go on summer adventure

Dudes, it's been 28 years since we last saw the duo on the big screen but now they're back.

R. Kelly asks judge for permission to play Dubai concerts

The embattled singer surrendered his passport last month and faces 10 charges of sexual abuse.

Italy takes a shine to China's New Silk Road

Italy is ready to let Chinese money build its infrastructure - but its allies remain sceptical.

Nicaragua agrees to free all opposition prisoners

The move is aimed at restarting stalled peace talks after months of anti-government protests.

Dutch PM loses senate majority to populists - exit poll

The anti-immigration Forum for Democracy looks set to be the second biggest party in the upper house.

Christchurch shootings: New Zealand to ban military style weapons

New Zealand will ban all types of semi-automatic weapons used in the Christchurch attacks.

Mount Everest: Melting glaciers expose dead bodies

The remains of mountaineers who died on the world's highest peak are being exposed as its ice melts.

Christchurch attacker 'killed my whole family'

Maryam Gul says she has forgiven the man who killed her parents and brother in the Christchurch mosque attacks.

Venezuelans collect mountain run-off as water shortages persist

A recent power cut caused major water shortages, but for many Venezuelans, dry taps are nothing new.

NZ to ban all military style weapons - PM

New Zealand will ban all types of semi-automatic weapons used in Christchurch attacks, says PM Jacinda Ardern

Cyclone Idai: Flying over flooded Mozambique

The BBC's Fergal Keane went to Mozambique to assess the devastation caused by Cyclone Idai.

Patrick Shanahan: Pentagon chief's ties to Boeing investigated

Patrick Shanahan is accused of frequently praising Boeing in meetings about government contracts.

Giant sunfish washes up on beach in South Australia

Fishermen initially mistook the flat fish's unusual appearance for a piece of driftwood.

Thailand election: Young voters could be key to victory

It's the first election since the coup of 2014 and seven million young people are voting for the first time.

Nowruz: How 300m people celebrate Persian New Year

On Thursday, millions of people will celebrate Persian New Year, also known as Nowruz. Here's how.

Jacinda Ardern: 'A leader with love on full display'

The NZ prime minister has been held up as an example of good leadership after the Christchurch attack.

The 'controlled chaos' of raising sextuplets

We spoke to families with quintuplets and sextuplets to find out what it's like to raise multiple babies at once.

Christchurch shooting: Australia's moment of hate speech reckoning

Australians question whether the tone of racial rhetoric spurred the man accused of the Christchurch attacks.

Chinese imports 'driving fishermen to despair'

Kenya's Lake Victoria fishermen are struggling to compete with cheap Chinese fish imports.

Cyclone Idai: Rescuers race against time to reach survivors

Aid workers say thousands in Mozambique are still awaiting rescue from catastrophic flooding.

The Indonesian paradise island drowning in plastic

Beaches on the Indonesian island of Sumatra are covered in plastic - and some of it is being dumped there by local businesses.

'Why are the children being punished?'

Russian officials are facing appeals from hundreds of families to bring back IS wives and children.

Forty-five rattlesnakes found under Texas house

A man called for help after spotting a few snakes. When the professionals arrived, they found a lot more.

Student football team abducted in Anglophone Cameroon

The kidnap follows the abduction of a top football club coach on Tuesday.

Trump: I didn't get a thank you for McCain funeral

"Not my kind of guy," the president says of the late Republican senator in his latest attack on him.

Three children dropped to safety from apartment fire in Iowa

Dramatic bodycam video shows police officers catching them from a third floor apartment in the American state of Iowa.

Fake pathologist for Germanwings air crash victims on trial

The Dutch man examined victims of major disasters like the 2015 Germanwings air crash.

Trump spooks markets with China trade tariffs warning

The US President says tariffs on goods could stay for longer to make sure China 'lives by the deal'.

President Trump shows map of 'IS defeat'

President Trump said it highlights how much territory the Islamic State group has lost since his election.

'Obscene' beer label causes row in Russia

A Russian brewery is under fire for its sado-masochistic bottle label.

Christchurch shootings: The Briton who survived mosque attack

Nathan Smith says he doesn't know how he survived the Al Noor mosque attack in Christchurch.

Auschwitz visitors urged not to balance on railway tracks for photos

The memorial that preserves the death camp site urges people to avoid disrespectful photos.

US air strikes killed Somali civilians - Amnesty

Amnesty International says it recorded 14 recent deaths - the US says its targets are "terrorists".

Italian driver hijacks and torches school bus full of children

Police helped children escape through smashed windows as the suspect set the bus alight.

Native American inmates in Texas win right to grow hair long

Three Texas prisoners win a nearly seven-year lawsuit to grow their hair long for religious beliefs.

Korea spycam porn: 1,600 fall victim and four men arrested

Four men allegedly filmed 1,600 guests in 30 South Korean hotels and sold the footage online.

Radovan Karadzic sentence increased to life at UN tribunal

A tribunal rejects the Bosnian Serb ex-leader's appeal and increases his jail term for genocide.

Radovan Karadzic: Former Bosnian Serb leader faces final war crimes verdict

A UN tribunal is to rule on the appeal of Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic, who was found guilty of genocide.

Nursultan: Kazakhstan renames capital Astana after ex-president

Astana becomes Nursultan just one day after Nursultan Nazarbayev's surprise resignation.

Tayla Harris: Australian rules football player's online trolling compared to sexual abuse

The online abuse of Australian rules footballer Tayla Harris is "abhorrent and disgusting" say leading pundits of the game.

Holi: Hindus across India and Nepal celebrate festival of colours

Mainly celebrated in India and Nepal, Holi marks the beginning of spring.

Cyclone Idai: Mozambique survivors desperate for help

The UN calls the aftermath of Cyclone Idai in southern Africa a "massive disaster", with hundreds dead.

Alaa Al Aswany: Egypt 'sues novelist for insulting state'

Bestselling author Alaa Al Aswany is alleged to have insulted the president, army and judiciary.

Why Turkish leader is showing Christchurch attack video

The Turkish leader's use of footage from the New Zealand shootings is vintage Erdogan, says Mark Lowen.

Google hit with €1.49bn fine from EU over advertising

The search engine has been fined for blocking rival online search advertisers.

Argentina rescue: Huge search finds boy lost for day in desert

A massive search found the boy 21km from where his parents lost him in western Argentina.

San Francisco moves to ban e-cigarettes until health effects known

The law would halt sales until vaping's health effects are fully evaluated by US regulators.

Tokyo 2020: Robots to feature at Olympic and Paralympic Games

The Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games are set to revolutionise the way spectators experience sporting events - by introducing robots

Brazil gunmen shoot at convoy carrying nuclear fuel in Angra dos Reis

Gunmen opened fire on a convoy carrying uranium to a nuclear power plant near Rio, police say.

Mayawati: India Dalit icon will not contest election

One of India's most popular politicians, she was expected to play kingmaker in case of a coalition.

Christchurch shooting: NZ PM: 'We need global action on extremism'

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern has called for global action on extremism in an exclusive BBC interview.

Pasir Gudang: How one quiet lorry sparked a toxic waste crisis

It was broad daylight in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia, when up to 40 tonnes of waste slipped into the river.

Hungary Orban: Party faces European expulsion vote in Brussels

The Hungarian leader has riled EU allies who are considering expelling his party from their bloc.

Christchurch shootings: Jacinda Ardern calls for global anti-racism fight

New Zealand's PM tells the BBC that right-wing ideology must be confronted after the mosque attacks.

Guatemala seeks arrest of former attorney general Thelma Aldana

An arrest warrant is issued for former attorney general Thelma Aldana, who is running for president.

Brexit: The choice facing British citizens living in Germany

What Brexit, freedom of movement and citizenship mean to three people living in Berlin.

NZ shootings: Comic asks searching race relations questions

A widely-shared comic asks tough questions in the wake of Friday's attack in Christchurch.

The good things about ADHD: 'It's my superpower'

ADHD can sometimes be portrayed quite negatively, so an ADHD parents' support group asked us to make a film looking at some of the good things about it.

Bolsonaro visit: A tale of two Trumps

The US and Brazilian presidents may be ideological soulmates, but this bromance faces a big test.

Chandrashekhar Azad: The Indian Dalit leader challenging Modi

Chandrashekhar Azad has emerged as the newest political icon for India's 200 million Dalits.

White Crow's star dancer 'channelled' Rudolf Nureyev

Oleg Ivenko says he "talked" to Rudolf Nureyev as he played the superstar Russian dancer.

India election 2019: Are women any safer?

Violence against women is an emotive issue in India's election campaign. Has the situation improved?

Cyclone Idai: Survivors rescued by land and air

Rescue operations continue to recover survivors from the floods caused by Cyclone Idai in Mozambique.

Cyclone Idai: 'Humanitarian disaster' in southern Africa

The president of Mozambique has declared Cyclone Idai "a humanitarian disaster of great proportion".

Mexico violence: With only one gun shop, how come all the murders?

The number of homicides reached a record high in 2018 and experts say most were carried out with US guns.

Christchurch shootings: First funerals for victims of mosque attacks

Two of the Christchurch mosque attack victims are laid to rest as volunteers travel to help families.

Jair Bolsonaro and Donald Trump swap football shirts

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is visiting US President Donald Trump at the White House.

Danish MP told child 'not welcome' in parliament chamber

The speaker asked the MP to remove her child because "MPs should be in the chamber, not babies or children".

Hayabusa2: Asteroid mission exploring a 'rubble pile'

The mission exploring an asteroid finds that it consists of material blasted off another asteroid.

Boeing: US orders review of 737 Max licence to fly

The transport secretary orders an independent assessment of the 737 Max certification process.

Weedkiller glyphosate a 'substantial' cancer factor

Jury to consider damages after one of the world's most widely-used weedkillers is blamed for cancer.

Hang White People: Rapper Nick Conrad fined over YouTube song

French rapper Nick Conrad is found guilty of incitement to violence with his video Hang White People.

Wendy Williams seeking addiction help and living in sober house

The US talk show host opened up about her addiction and secret stay in a sober house.

France issues arrest warrants in Russian doping probe

Two former Russian athletics officials are alleged to be involved in the doping cover-ups.

Houston chemical fire to rage for days

A chemical fire in Texas has been going on for three days, and fire officials say could go on for two more.

Skiers caught by surprise in off-piste Austria avalanche

A group of skiers were caught by surprise after being trapped in an off-piste avalanche in Austria.

Brexit: Merkel vows to fight for orderly process

The German leader says time is running out and refuses to say whether she will support an extension.

Israel elections: 'Fascism' perfume ad sparks online debate

A mock ad features the country's right-wing justice minister spraying a bottle of "Fascism" perfume.

Supreme Court sides with Trump on immigration detention

The highest court has sided with the administration on a policy to detain convicted noncitizens.

Estonia rounds up anglers on thin ice

Estonian anglers have been caught fishing on thawing ice despite ban.

Majorca in drive to rein in boozy tourists

Tourist haunts that run drink promotions face fines in the resort city of Palma, as do rowdy visitors.

US-backed Syrian fighters 'overrun IS encampment'

The camp near the Iraqi border made up most of the last patch of land held by the jihadist group.

Thai tycoon found guilty for poaching but freed ahead of appeal

Premchai Karnasuta was seen with hunting gear and carcasses of protected species in a national park.

Pope rejects Cardinal Barbarin's resignation over abuse cover-up

France's top Catholic cleric was given a six-month suspended sentence for failing to report abuse.

Bubble maths researcher wins top award

One of the highest prizes for mathematics is awarded to Prof Karen Uhlenbeck for her ground-breaking work.

Kazakh leader Nazarbayev resigns after three decades

Leader of Kazakhstan since independence from Soviet Union in 1991, Nursultan Nazarbayev, announces his resignation.

Dutch shooting: Letter suggests motive in Utrecht attack

The letter was found in a getaway car and prosecutors say terrorism is still a possible motive.

Airbnb host jailed for killing guest over unpaid bill

Australian Jason Colton carried out the "vicious" attack on a guest who could not pay the bill.

Cyclone Idai: Huge area of Mozambique submerged

A 50km-wide stretch of land in central Mozambique is under water, an aerial survey has shown.

Woman in China nearly dies after injecting herself with fruit juice

The woman in China suffered liver, kidney, heart and lung damage and spent days in intensive care.

Huge Norwegian aluminium plants hit by cyber-attack

The Norwegian firm, which employs 35,000 people worldwide, has switched to manual controls at some plants.

Translation errors force Osaka metro websites offline

Its English website, which has been taken offline, told people to take the 'Sakai muscle line'.

Ariana Grande kicks off Sweetner world tour in New York

The star plays a hit-packed, 31-song setlist in New York.

Boeing expects 737 Max software fix by end of March

The aviation giant tells airlines it will have new software to control the controversial MCAS system.

Warner Bros boss quits amid affair allegations

Kevin Tsujihara leaves after claims he attempted to secure roles for an actress he was involved with.

People don't become 'adults' until their 30s, say scientists

Experts say people aged 18 are still going through changes in the brain that can affect behaviour.

Tokyo 2020 Games: Japan Olympics chief Tsunekazu Takeda quits

Japan's 2020 Olympics chief Tsunekazu Takeda quits over corruption allegations relating to Tokyo's winning bid to host the Games.

Human embryo smuggling: Malaysian arrested at India airport

Officials in Mumbai, India, believe they may have uncovered a smuggling ring linked to a clinic.

Cyclone Idai: Rescue teams arrive in Mozambique

Rescue teams have arrived in Mozambique where as many as 1,000 people could have died following Cyclone Idai.

Christchurch shootings: Ardern vows never to say gunman's name

New Zealand prime minister says person who attacked mosques should not be given notoriety.

Christchurch shooting: Australia PM calls for social media crackdown

Australia's PM asks that G20 leaders discuss "unrestricted" social media in the wake of the NZ attacks.

World's most expensive cities revealed

Paris comes top of a ranking of the world's most expensive cities, alongside Hong Kong and Singapore.

Why are Venezuelans seeking refuge in crypto-currencies?

As Venezuela staggers under political and economic crises, its citizens are embracing digital money.

NZ PM vows to never utter Christchurch shooter's name

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has vowed to never use the Christchurch attacker's name.

How US university admissions are broken

The cheating scandal involving wealthy parents has put the system in the spotlight.

Afghanistan: The children caught in conflict

Photographer Andrew Quilty captured stories of children affected by conflict in Afghanistan.

Chinese goths post selfies in protest after subway incident

It comes after a woman was refused entry onto the subway because of her "horrible" make-up.

New Zealand attack: How young people responded

Five of those killed in the Christchurch attack were under 16. Young people held their own vigil.

Italy's La Scala opera house to return Saudi millions

Milan's famous La Scala scraps a partnership plan with Saudi Arabia after a public outcry.

Ukraine election: The 'clone' candidate for president?

Two of the candidates in next month's Ukrainian presidential election have the same surname and initials.

Rio state takes over running of Brazil's iconic Maracanã stadium

Rio wants to investigate the now cancelled contract of a private consortium for possible corruption.

Michael Wernick: Trudeau loses top civil servant in crisis

Michael Wernick says he will retire because 'mutual trust' has been broken with opposition parties.

Boeing: French investigators find crash 'similarities'

French air crash investigators say there are "clear similarities" between two Boeing 737 Max crashes.

Super bloom tourists cause small town 'safety crisis'

Tourists hoping to photograph a bloom of wild poppies briefly shut down a California canyon.

Russia human rights: Chechnya court jails Memorial activist

Oyub Titiev gets four years in prison for possessing illegal drugs - a charge he says was trumped up.

Áurea Vázquez Rijos: Beauty queen jailed for husband's murder

A Puerto Rican woman has been sentenced for the 2005 killing of her husband that sparked a global manhunt.

Koffi Olomidé guilty of rape of 15-year-old girl

Congolese star Koffi Olomidé is given a two-year suspended jail term by a French court.

Equal Pay Day: Cheaper travel for Berlin women

Berlin public transport gives women 21% off fares to highlight the gender pay gap.

Gaza economic protests expose cracks in Hamas's rule

The Palestinian territory has seen several days of rare protests against the militant group's rule.

Uganda food aid halted over poisoning fears

One person has died and nearly 200 others are in hospital after being given a "super cereal" mix.

Two dead in record flooding in US Midwestern states

Two people have died while residents in Nebraska and Iowa were forced to flee in historic flooding.

Armando, the 'Lewis Hamilton of pigeons' sells for record €1.25m