Abounding Opportunities

Wind gusts of up to 80km/h are forecast for several days, creating blinding, blowing snow.

Collingwood: Australian Football League club 'guilty of systemic racism'

Collingwood - one of Australia's biggest sporting clubs - has overseen "profound" harm, a report finds.

Groundbreaking biofuel rocket could be 'Uber for space'

Stardust 1.0 has become the first commercial launch of a rocket powered by bio-derived fuel.

Saudi human rights under new spotlight in Biden era

After free reign under President Trump, will the kingdom now be held more to account?

Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: What a blind man's death reveals

Asmelash Woldeselassie has given his eyesight, left arm and now his life to a succession of wars in Tigray.

Three lives, one message: Stop killing Mexico's transgender women

In Mexico, the second most dangerous country to be transgender, trans women fight to be protected.

Romania's young history fans battle to save imperial spa resort

Volunteers try to breathe new life into a Romanian resort once a playground for European elites.

Now and then: Iceland's vanishing glaciers

See how much Iceland's Skaftafellsjokull glacier has retreated over the past 30 years.

Saba Sahar: 'I survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban'

Afghan film director Saba Sahar is one of the few to survive from a recent wave of targeted killings.

Life in a Day 2020: Kevin Macdonald says documentary 'reinforces everyone's similarities'

British director Kevin Macdonald's new documentary of personal videos from around the world giving a snapshot on 25 July 2020.

Have US police departments become too militarised?

President Biden is reportedly looking to restrict local police from receiving surplus military gear.

Impostor syndrome: 'I feel like I don't deserve my success'

An influencer and a corporate professional from India share their experiences of impostor syndrome.

Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi 'detained by military'

Myanmar political leaders, including Aung San Suu Kyi, have been detained by the military, her party says.

Covid: EU and AstraZeneca in 'step forward' on vaccines

The Commission chief announces a "step forward" after criticism over EU handling of vaccine plans.

Somalia al-Shabab militants attack hotel in Mogadishu

Explosions and gunfire are heard at the scene of the Afrik Hotel in Mogadishu.

Navalny protests: Hundreds in Moscow detained by police

Unauthorised protests take place to demand the release of the jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Tigray crisis: 'Genocidal war' waged in Ethiopia region, says ex-leader

Tigray's ousted leader accuses Ethiopian and Eritrean forces of committing atrocities.

Covid: Thousands attend Israel funeral for orthodox rabbi

Deputy Prime Minister Benny Gantz has criticised "unequal enforcement" of rules over the gathering.

Covid: Israel to transfer 5,000 vaccine doses to Palestinians

It is the first such transfer, amid disagreement over who is responsible for inoculations.

Lionel Messi: Barcelona deny leaking forward's contract

Barcelona say they will take "appropriate legal action" after Spanish newspaper El Mundo published details of Lionel Messi's contract.

Covid: 'Lessons to be learnt' from NI vaccine row - Irish PM

We need to "calm down" after the EU reverses a plan to put checks on the Irish border, Micheál Martin says.

UK applying to join Asia-Pacific free trade pact CPTPP

If successful, Britain will join a club including Japan and Australia and covering 500m people.

Hilton Valentine, guitarist with the Animals, dies aged 77

The British musician's riff on The House of The Rising Sun is one of the most famous in pop history.

Covid: Australian city of Perth goes into snap lockdown after guard tests positive

Schools, bars and gyms close in the Australian city after a guard at a quarantine hotel tests positive.

Donald Trump 'parts with lawyers' before impeachment trial

Donald Trump has reportedly parted ways with lawyers representing him in his impeachment trial.

Hong Kong residents now eligible for special UK visa

From Sunday, those eligible can apply for a special UK visa using a smartphone app.

Russia braces for latest Navalny protests

Metro stations are closed and movement is restricted ahead of rallies in support of Alexei Navalny.

Covid vaccination: LA Dodgers stadium closed by protests

Protests by anti-vaccine and far-right groups forced the closure of Dodger Stadium on Saturday.

Covid: The pandemic's young widows and widowers

"The grief creeps up on you," says Pamela who is raising two children alone after losing her husband.

Japan whale hunting: 'By-catch' rule highlighted after minke death

The death of a whale which got trapped in a net off Japan has once again exposed the hunting divide.

Coronavirus in Algeria: 'No-one could travel to say goodbye to grandpa'

Algeria's coronavirus restrictions mean that people in the diaspora are unable to properly mourn.

Could a vaccine get rid of malaria for good?

Seventeen-year-old Victoline explores progress to tackle the disease in her home country, Kenya.

Lebanon ambulance driver: 'Hospitals can't take our Covid patients'

Lebanon's hospitals are turning away patients as the country buckles under Covid and economic collapse.

'They're coming for us' - right-wing media on Biden's week

After four years of cheerleading, conservative pundits have switched tack with Biden in their sights.

India protests: Internet cut to hunger-striking farmers in Delhi

Tensions are rising in Delhi where thousands of farmers are demanding agriculture reforms be repealed.

Marseille v Rennes match called off after 300 fans attack training centre

Marseille's match at home to Rennes in France's Ligue 1 is postponed after violent scenes at their training ground on Saturday.

UAE to offer citizenship to 'talented' foreigners

The Gulf state relies on its immigrant population but does not usually grant citizenship rights.

In Case 'Ewe' Missed It: The sheep, the steep and the ski city

Why did 3,000 sheep cross the road? That and more in our weekly video round-up: In Case "Ewe" Missed It.

Turkey LGBT: Four students arrested over artwork

Officials say the artwork depicted rainbow symbols alongside the most sacred site in Islam.

Poland abortion ban: Protesters take to Warsaw streets

Protests have been taking place in Polish cities for the third night in a row following the introduction of a near-total ban on abortion.

Russian billionaire Arkady Rotenberg says 'Putin Palace' is his

Businessman Arkady Rotenberg says he owns the vast property at the centre of a Russian controversy.

'Visionary' music producer Sophie dies aged 34

The Grammy-nominated artist died following "a sudden accident" in Athens, her manager said.

Covid vaccines: Those that work - and the others to come

As two new jabs prove effective, where do we stand with vaccines and the fight back against Covid?

Japanese woman 'kept mother's body in freezer for 10 years'

The Japanese woman reportedly hid the body a decade ago because she "didn't want to move out".

Cuba helicopter crash: Five dead after aircraft left Holguín

The aircraft crashed after leaving eastern Holguín for a short trip to Guantánamo province.

Marjorie Taylor Greene: Democrat to move to get away from controversial Republican

Cori Bush said Marjorie Taylor Greene targeted her "unmasked" in the House of Representatives.

Australian Open to allow up to 30,000 fans to attend per day

Up to 30,000 fans a day will be allowed to attend the Australian Open, Victoria's minister for sport has announced.

Brian Sicknick: Officer killed in Capitol riot to lie in honour

Brian Sicknick died after sustaining injuries during the pro-Trump violence at the US Capitol.

Russian anti-Putin anger spreads: 'We have to protest'

Russia is seeing some of the biggest demonstrations for a decade over the imprisonment of Alexei Navalny.

Amsterdam drugs: Tourists face ban from cannabis cafes

The mayor of Amsterdam has angered coffee shop owners, who fear that drug gangsters could step in.

Jonas Gwangwa The South African jazz icon who stood up to apartheid

Remembering iconic trombonist and exiled anti-apartheid activist Jonas Gwangwa who has died aged 83.

Coronavirus: What's behind Latin America's oxygen shortages?

Some Latin American countries struggle with insufficient oxygen as Covid-19 continues to spread.

Black Lives Matter foundation wins Swedish human rights prize

Organisers of the Olof Palme prize praise the group for promoting "peaceful civil disobedience".

Covid: Argentina imposes new tax on wealthiest

A one-off tax on Argentina's richest people will pay for medical supplies and help for businesses.

The exiles: Hong Kong at a crossroads

Pro-democracy protesters face a tough decision over continuing to fight or fleeing to the UK.

Surfing duck: Pet becomes local celebrity at Australian beach

The duck - called Duck - has become renowned locally for his daily forays into the sea.

Shell Nigeria ordered to pay compensation for oil spills

The oil giant's Nigerian subsidiary is ordered to pay compensation to farmers.

Colombia Farc: Former rebels charged with war crimes

It is the first major result for a court set up after the 2016 deal that ended decades of conflict.

Covid-19: Can travel bans work?

Faced with new variants of Covid-19 and increasing deaths, countries are introducing more travel restrictions.

Covid: New Zealand quarantine hotel worker sacked after ‘inappropriate encounter’

A quarantine hotel employee spent 20 minutes in a room with someone who should have been isolating.

Israeli archaeologists find 'Biblical royal purple dye'

The rare purple was said to be worn by prestigious figures such as King David, Solomon and Jesus.

Covid: AstraZeneca contract must be published, says European Commission chief

Ursula von der Leyen's call follows a row over the firm's deal to supply its Covid jab to the EU.

Coronavirus: Crowds torch government building as lockdown unrest continues

More than 100 people are reportedly injured in the city of Tripoli in a fourth night of protests.

Pioneering US actress Cicely Tyson dies aged 96

She was known for playing strong African-American characters during a career spanning seven decades.

Indomie: Creator of cult favourite 'mi goreng' instant noodle dies

Nunuk Nuraini invented Indomie's "mi goreng" noodle, which has fans across the globe.

Australian Open tennis players begin to exit hotel quarantine

They have spent 14 days in isolation under anti-Covid measures that have drawn criticism and praise.

China warns Taiwan independence 'means war' as US dismisses comments

The warning comes days after China stepped up military activities near the self-governed island.

Can striking oil turn Cambodia's economy around?

The country's first oil project has finally started pumping the black gold after 15 years of false starts.

Ford to start building electric Mustangs in China

The US carmaker wants to compete with the likes of Tesla and other Chinese electric carmakers.

NY undercounted nursing home coronavirus deaths by thousands

The report directly undercuts Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has boasted about his pandemic response.

US-Mexico border: The gruesome attack that shocked a village

Families look for answers after 19 people were killed then set alight on the US-Mexico border.

Africa's week in pictures: 21-28 January 2021

A selection of the week's best photos from across the continent and beyond.

UK BNO visa: Can Hong Kong residents now live in the UK?

The government has granted millions of people in Hong Kong new opportunities to live and work in the UK.

Why roller skating is making a comeback

It's become so popular in the past year that there's now a worldwide shortage of skates.

Navalny defiant as judge dismisses appeal

The prominent anti-Putin campaigner decried his detention as "illegal" in a video link hearing.

Daniel Pearl: US 'outraged' after Pakistan's court acquits men accused of murder

The American journalist was abducted and beheaded while working on a story in Pakistan in 2002.

Climate activists on Biden plans: 'We're celebrating key victories today'

Two young US campaigners react to the Biden administration's proposals on fighting climate change.

The story behind the inauguration's sign language Pledge of Allegiance

Fire Captain Andrea Hall stole the show - and there is a personal story behind her unique pledge.

Congresswoman confronts Parkland survivor

Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene confronts David Hogg over his gun control stance.

Australian man survives crocodile attack by 'prising jaws off his head'

Health officials say the man is expected to make a full recovery following the Queensland attack.

Coronavirus: Germany facing '10 tough weeks' of vaccine shortages

The health minister says supply issues will continue amid a row between the EU and AstraZeneca.

Daniel Pearl: Pakistan court acquits men accused of murder

The Wall Street Journal journalist was kidnapped and beheaded while working on a story in Pakistan.

Singapore's ‘Lion King' cub Simba born from dead dad Mufasa’s semen

Baby lion Simba was born through artificial insemination - after his frail dad had to be put down.

Koh Phangan: Police arrest 89 foreigners in bar raid

The group, from more than 10 countries, attended a party, flouting coronavirus restrictions.

Poland enforces controversial near-total abortion ban

Protests are under way and more are planned after the ban came into effect at midnight on Wednesday

Bridgerton: Netflix says drama is its biggest series ever

The streaming giant says 82 million households watched the show in its first 28 days online.

Covid: WHO probe team in China to come out of quarantine

A team of experts will begin interviewing people in the city where Covid-19 was first detected.

Coronavirus: EU and AstraZeneca seek to resolve vaccine supply crisis

Both sides pledge to work together after a reported 50 million-dose shortfall for the 27-member EU.

'Bad words' lead to GameStop shares plunging

Private investors using online chatrooms have led to a trading frenzy in some unexpected shares.

Coronavirus: EU and AstraZeneca seek to resolve vaccine supply crisis

Both sides pledge to work together after a reported 50 million-dose shortfall for the 27-member EU.

Teen held for Christchurch-inspired mosque plot

The 16-year-old planned to knife Muslims at mosques and livestream the attack, authorities say.

Teen held for Christchurch-inspired mosque plot

The 16-year-old boy in Singapore planned to knife Muslims at mosques and livestream the attack.

John Kerry: UK climate summit is world's 'last best chance'

The new US climate envoy says time is running out for the world to address the climate crisis.

Covid Australia: Queensland to reopen to Sydney after outbreak contained

Travel bans ease across Australia after a Covid outbreak in its biggest city is brought under control.

Chinese New Year: Clamping down on going home for the holidays

China is striving to curtail the world's biggest mass migration event when people go home to see family.

Antony Blinken: Who is America's new top diplomat?

The 58-year-old is on home turf in the state department, vowing to restore trust after the Trump era.

Sani Abacha - the hunt for the billions stolen by Nigeria's ex-leader

A phone call in the middle of the night led one Swiss lawyer to pursue Nigeria's stolen money.

What tech can the US president use?

From the ObamaPad to Joe Biden's Apple Watch and Peloton, being president can be a tech challenge.

Covid-19: US regulators issue warning over 'toxic' Mexico hand sanitisers

Dangerous levels of toxic ingredients are found in many alcohol-based sanitisers imported to the US.

German Lübcke trial: Far-right defendant faces killing verdict

Stephan Ernst admits firing the shot that killed prominent pro-migrant politician Walter Lübcke.

Biden: 'Time to act' on climate crisis

President Joe Biden signs executive orders on climate change, saying the US has waited too long.

Kristal and her students are fighting to eradicate ocean plastic

Kristal Ambrose set up the Bahamas Plastic Movement in 2013 in a bid to reduce pollution.

Social media damages teenagers' mental health, report says

Heavy social media use had a negative impact on wellbeing, the study found.

Boeing 737 Max cleared to fly in Europe after crashes

Regulators say the plane is safe to resume service after two fatal crashes led to its grounding.

Biden to sign executive orders on environment

Oil and gas extraction will be paused and wind energy will expand under Joe Biden's climate plan.

Biden administration to restore aid to Palestinians

The new US president wants to "restore credible engagement" in efforts to find a two-state solution.

Coronavirus: France's Sanofi to boost Pfizer vaccine supply amid EU shortages

Sanofi will produce doses of Pfizer/BioNTech which, along with AstraZeneca, has had supply problems.

Nia Dennis: US gymnast's 'black excellence' routine goes viral

Nia Dennis says her floor routine was "a celebration of everything [black people] can do".

Independent Spirit Awards: Michaela Coel, Carey Mulligan among nominees

Riz Ahmed, Michaela Coel, and Carey Mulligan are all recognised. Will Oscar nominations soon follow?

Covid map: Coronavirus cases, deaths, vaccinations by country

Key maps and charts explaining how the virus has spread around the world.

Holocaust Memorial Day: 'British citizenship saved my mother'

On Holocaust Memorial Day, Lill Saether reflects on how being born in Newry saved her mother's life.

Climate change: Biggest global poll supports 'global emergency'

More than a million people in 50 countries take part in the biggest poll to date on climate change.

Covid: US pharmacist in vaccine tampering guilty plea

Steven Brandenburg admits he believed inoculation could harm people, prosecutors in Wisconsin say.

Joe Biden: The team he hopes can fix the US economy

The new US president has called on a team of Ivy League-trained economists and lawyers to "heal" the economy.

Rescued Chinese miners 'feel reborn' after harrowing ordeal

Two Chinese miners have described how they survived while trapped underground for two weeks.

US actress Jane Fonda to get Golden Globes' lifetime achievement award

The 83-year-old Hollywood royalty is also known as an active climate change campaigner.

Goldman Sachs boss takes $10m pay cut for 1MDB

David Solomon is being punished for the bank's involvement in the fraudulent Malaysian investment fund.

Elliot Page: Canada's Juno star to divorce Emma Portner

The Oscar-nominated actor and his choreographer wife describe as "difficult" their decision to split.

California’s Governor Newsom eases Covid restrictions - why now?

The governor has lifted the state’s stay-at-home order as test positivity rates have steadily fallen.

Keystone XL: Why I fought for - or against - the pipeline

President Biden has cancelled the permit for the controversial US-Canada project.

When your 'pandemic puppy' doesn't work out

Lockdown seemed like the perfect time to get a dog, but for some, the excitement turned into regret.

How women played a major role in Yemen's Arab Spring

Yemeni lawyer Ishraq al-Maqtari shares her memories of being one of the first women to take to the streets in Taiz city, which later became known as the 'cradle of the revolution'.

The child environmentalist receiving death threats in Colombia

Francisco Vera, 11, was threatened after calling for better access to education during the pandemic.

Iraq killings: Who's behind a series of murders?

BBC News Arabic investigates a series of killings and the power of Shia militia groups in Iraq.

Holocaust Memorial Day 2021: 'It's sad when I sit there alone'

Already a difficult day, honouring those killed by the Nazis will be different this year, as the pandemic prevents survivors and their families being together.

Panorama: The Jihadis from my schooldays

Olivia Davies went to school and college with two brothers who later left Wales and became extremists in Syria.

Harriet Tubman: Biden moves to put anti-slavery activist on $20 bill

A plan to put the anti-slavery activist on the banknote was delayed under ex-President Donald Trump.

Tractor rally: India farmers clash with police in massive protest

Police in Delhi have used tear gas in some places to stop farmers from breaking barricades.

Scientists address myths over large-scale tree planting

Scientists propose 10 golden rules for restoring forests to maximise benefits for the planet.

Australia Day: Thousands defy Covid rules in 'Invasion Day' protests

Several are arrested in "Invasion Day" rallies protesting against the day marking British colonisation.

Twitter pilot to let users flag 'false' content

The company acknowledges its "Birdwatch" idea could be "messy", but says it is worth trying.

Trump impeachment: When will he go on trial in the Senate?

The former US president was impeached, accused of inciting a mob. Here's a guide to the next steps.

Coronavirus: Carlos Slim, Latin America's richest man, tests positive

The 80-year-old Mexican telecoms mogul shows mild symptoms and is doing "very well", his son says.

House delivers impeachment charge against Trump

Leaders in the House have brought their article of impeachment against Donald Trump to the Senate.

Coronavirus: Seafarers stuck at sea ‘a humanitarian crisis’

Crew are asking to be designated 'key workers' so they can go home without risking public health.

Covid vaccines: Casino boss resigns after jumping queue

Rod Baker and his wife travelled to the Canadian Arctic and posed as local workers to get the jab.

Harvey Weinstein: Court agrees $17m payout for accusers

The money comes from the liquidation of a firm co-founded by the disgraced film director.

Coronavirus: EU to tighten vaccine exports amid row with AstraZeneca

The EU says it is unacceptable that AstraZeneca is cutting the number of pledged vaccine doses.

Covid-19: Five days that shaped the outbreak

Before Wuhan was locked down in January 2020 officials said the outbreak was under control - but the virus had spread inside and outside the city.

Biden adds South Africa to Covid travel bans

The restrictions come as Minnesota records the first US case of the Brazil Covid variant.

Coronavirus in Zimbabwe: 'We need vaccines now'

Zimbabwean doctor Dixon Chibanda explains why it's so vital that Zimbabwe gets vaccines urgently.

Randy Rainbow made his name satirising Trump - now what?

Why the show's not over for Randy Rainbow who used Broadway tunes to make fun of Donald Trump.

Shyamala Gopalan: The woman who inspired Kamala Harris

The tale of her rise is rooted in an audacious journey Shyamala Gopalan made more than 60 years ago.

Janet Yellen to be first female US treasury secretary

The Senate has confirmed Janet Yellen as first female treasury secretary in US history.

Like a good deal? Maybe a hagglebot can help

Artificial intelligence is getting better at negotiating and research promises systems that could help you.

Covid vaccines: Why some countries will have to wait until 2022

How are Covid-19 vaccines being distributed across the world? As some countries start vaccinating their populations, others are being left behind.

Covid: The migrant helping Australia with modified masks

When Manmeet Kaur began giving away masks, she realised many people would relish a different design.

Hope and fear as Somalia’s civil war turns 30

Thirty years since Somalia plunged into civil war, BBC Africa correspondent Andrew Harding has returned to Mogadishu to see what hopes people have for peace.

Malka Leifer: Israel extradites ex-principal accused of child sex abuse in Australia

Malka Leifer is being flown to Australia, where she is accused of sexually assaulting schoolgirls.

Keira Knightley rules out sex scenes directed by men

The actress explains why she has a "no nudity clause" written into her movie contracts.

Earnings of wealthiest 10 men during pandemic 'could buy vaccines for all'

Billionaires' wealth has soared while the pandemic has plunged millions into poverty, Oxfam says.

Asia Argento accuses Fast and Furious director Rob Cohen of sexual assault

The actress says Cohen assaulted her while filming 2002 movie xXx, but he denies the claim.

China mine rescue: Nine found dead during rescue in Shandong province

The discovery comes a day after 11 miners were rescued after two weeks trapped underground.

Flaming Lips stage unique 'space bubble' concert in Oklahoma

Both the band and their audience were inside individual inflatable bubbles.

Uganda ordered to end Bobi Wine's house arrest

Soldiers prevented him leaving his house in case he organised protests against disputed elections.

Protecting the last wild lions in Africa

Photographer George Logan highlights the decline of wild lions using conceptual images.

Chinese and Indian troops 'in new border clash'

Several were hurt in the incident several days ago at the Nathu La pass in Sikkim, Indian media say.

North Korea diplomat 'defects to South Korea': Reports

South Korean reports say that Run Hyun-woo - an acting ambassador - fled to South Korea in September.

China takes new foreign investment top spot from US

The top ranking highlights China's growing influence on the world economic stage.

Covid-19: Mexican President López Obrador tests positive

Andrés Manuel López Obrador, 67, announces he is receiving medical treatment for the coronavirus.

Heatwave sweeps Australian cities and raises bushfire danger

A bushfire casts smoke over Adelaide as other parts of Australia face their worst fire risk in a year.

Boeing 737 Max cleared to fly again 'too early'

A former Boeing manager says more investigations are needed on the plane, grounded after two crashes.

Covid-19: Why the US hasn't hit vaccine targets so far

Biden says the vaccine rollout has been a failure, as he pledges 100 million shots in his first 100 days.

Lebanon's Coronavirus lockdown: 'We can't leave our homes day or night'

People in Lebanon describe the impact of being confined to their homes for 24 hours a day.

Yang Li: The 'punchline queen' who offended Chinese men

A female comedian's joke on national television has sparked debate on comedy and feminism in China.

Zuckerberg's Biden problem

President Biden's open dislike of Facebook could spell problems for the social network.

Ethiopia's Tigray conflict: 'My wife died giving birth to twins while we hid'

A father tells the BBC his tragic story of fleeing the conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region.

Covid-19: Top advisor warns France at 'emergency' virus moment

The head of France's scientific council suggests a third lockdown is needed amid spread of variants.

Covid-19: Vaccine divides in the Middle East

Israel is vaccinating against Covid-19 faster than anywhere else, but most Palestinians are waiting.

Detective Jane Mugo: Meet Kenya's 'spy queen'

BBC Africa Eye looks at the inside story of Detective Jane Mugo, the woman they call Kenya’s "spy queen".

Egypt's dreams of democracy still alive?

It's been 10 years since Egyptians took to the streets to unseat their longest-serving President, Hosni Mubarak.

Covid: Israel vaccinates 16 to 18-year-olds ahead of exams

Israel has vaccinated more than a quarter of its population and now high school students are eligible.

Taiwan reports large incursion by Chinese warplanes for second day

China's moves coincide with the start of the Biden administration, which has shown support for Taiwan.

Covid-19: US tops 25 million coronavirus cases

President Joe Biden has warned things will "continue to get worse before they get better".

US police vehicle ploughs into crowd watching 'burnouts'

Footage shows a police car apparently driving through a group at a street race in Washington state.

UK firms told 'set up in EU to avoid trade disruption'

Firms say they have been advised by officials to set up EU hubs, but the government says it is not policy.

Mesut Ozil: Arsenal midfielder joins Fenerbahce on free transfer

Mesut Ozil says he will be a "Gunner for life" after completing his free transfer from Arsenal to Fenerbahce.

Australia man missing for 18 days 'survived on mushrooms'

Search efforts had been called off for Robert Weber, but he was reportedly found by a local MP.

Cyclone Eloise brings floods to Mozambique's second city Beira

Officials are assessing the scale of the damage and trying to restore power in parts of Beira.

JoJo Siwa: YouTube star 'never been this happy' after coming out

The teenage YouTube star is supported by fans and celebrities as she talks about her sexuality.

Covid: New Zealand reports first case in the community in months

The woman, who recently returned from Europe, had completed two weeks in isolation.

McGregor v Poirier 2: Irishman shocked in UFC rematch at Fight Island

Conor McGregor is left stunned on his return to the UFC as Dustin Poirier wins their rematch at UFC 257 by technical knockout.

China mine rescue: First survivor brought to surface, say state media

A miner trapped in the collapsed Hushan mine was brought to the surface on Sunday, state media say.

In pictures: Tens of thousands gather for pro-Navalny protests

Tens of thousands brave a police crackdown to show support for jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Tse Chi Lop: Alleged Asian drug lord arrested in Amsterdam

Australia believes Tse Chi Lop's syndicate controls up to 70% of narcotics entering the country.

The homeless drug addict who became a history professor

Jesse Thistle, a high school dropout, overcame addiction and homelessness to pursue an academic career.

Tunisians question whether life is better after Arab Spring

Ten years after ousting their strongman leader, some say the new system isn't working.

Letter from Africa: The continent no longer needs lectures from the US

President Joe Biden will need to renew the relationship with the continent, writes Waihiga Mwaura.

Coronavirus: How the pandemic has changed the world economy

Key maps and charts explain how the virus has impacted markets and businesses around the world.

Nazi Ravensbrück camp: How ordinary women became SS torturers

Female SS guards enjoyed home comforts at a camp where they tortured thousands of inmates.

A wristband that tells your boss if you are unhappy

Technology to help our mental wellbeing has grown in popularity during the coronavirus lockdowns.

Olivier Duhamel: French incest allegations prompt victims to speak out

A sex abuse case involving a well-known intellectual sparked a deluge of testimonies by victims of abuse.

Why Iran’s nuclear facilities are still vulnerable to attack

Putting sites underground does not mean they're beyond the reach of those who want them scuppered.

Vissarion: Is this Russian cult leader a fraud?

A mysterious Russian cult leader is accused of embezzling followers' funds and abusing them.

Covid: Italian PM brands vaccine delay 'unacceptable'

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has warned he will take legal action against Pfizer and AstraZeneca.

Krystina Arielle: Star Wars supports High Republic host after racist abuse

Krystina Arielle, the host of Star Wars: The High Republic Show, was attacked online.

Navalny protests: Hundreds arrested in string of protests across Russia

The arrest of the Kremlin's fiercest critic sparks a string of protests across Russia.

Sri Lanka Minister who promoted 'Covid syrup' tests positive

Pavithra Wanniarachchi, Sri Lanka's health minister, tested positive for Covid on Friday.

Larry King: US TV legend who hosted 50,000 interviews

Larry King - who has died aged 87 - was one of the giants of US broadcasting.

US broadcaster Larry King dies aged 87

Larry King, giant of American broadcasting, dies aged 87

Loyal dog's six-day wait for poorly owner outside Turkish hospital

Boncuk waited outside a hospital in Turkey every day while her owner was being treated.

Alexei Navalny: Dozens detained in protests in eastern Russia

Russian authorities crack down on protests in support of jailed Putin critic Alexei Navalny.

Back inside the Wuhan market where Covid-19 was first traced

BBC China correspondent Robin Brant has visited the building housing Wuhan's famous 'wet' market.

Trudeau conveys Keystone pipeline 'disappointment' to Biden

Despite the revoking of the Keystone XL permit, the Canadian PM hails "a new era" in bilateral ties.

Afghan war: Biden administration to review Trump's Taliban deal

Officials say they want to check the group are "living up to its commitments" as violence continues.

Wuhan marks its anniversary with triumph and denial

In the city where the virus first emerged there is now an insistence that it came from elsewhere.

Uganda's Yoweri Museveni overcomes Bobi Wine challenge - for now

President Yoweri Museveni sees off another challenger despite the expectation surrounding Bobi Wine.

Rémy Julienne: Stunt king to the stars who fell to Covid

Rémy Julienne was one of the world's top stunt artists, devising crashes and collisions in 1,400 films.

Covid hand-outs: How different countries pay if you are sick

As the UK rejects £500 Covid pay outs, how are others countries getting people to stick to the rules?

Islamic State tries to shore up relevance with Iraq carnage

Despite their territorial defeat, the extremists are striving to prove they still matter.

Week in pictures: 16-22 January 2021

A selection of striking images taken around the world this week.

National Guard: President Biden apologises over troops sleeping in car park

Photographs of hundreds of National Guard members sheltering underground sparked anger among lawmakers.

What next for Trump - and Trumpism?

Stripped of presidential powers and silenced online, can Trump still make a political comeback?

How Joe Biden's ancestral Irish home is celebrating

Celebrations broke out across Ballina when Biden's presidential victory was declared - and for the young people of the town, it meant that anything was possible.

Margaret Court's Order of Australia award sparks anger

The tennis player, now a pastor, has faced widespread condemnation for her LGBT views.

Trump 'prank-called by Piers Morgan impersonator'

The TV presenter says Mr Trump went on with the conversation, believing it to be Morgan.

Central African Republic declares emergency as rebels surround Bangui

Central African Republic, two-thirds controlled by rebels, is "at grave risk" the UN envoy says.

Honduran abortion law: Congress moves to set total ban 'in stone'

Critics say requiring 75% of Congress to alter the total ban would make a change almost impossible.

Diary Sow: Talented Senegal student 'sorry' after disappearing in France

Diary Sow, who raised concern by failing to return to school in Paris, had been "on a little break".

Japan insists Olympics are on track as doubts grow

Tokyo 2020 organisers are hopeful a successful Covid vaccine rollout will allow them to host the Games, as a report casts further doubt on their staging.

Indonesia plane crash probe focusses on autothrottle

It's still unclear why Sriwijaya Air SJ182 crashed, but it previously had issues with the autothrottle.

Chinese miners to remain trapped at least two more weeks

The rescue of the surviving workers in a collapsed Chinese mine will take at least two more weeks.

China falling short of US trade deal targets

The country agreed to buy $200bn worth of US goods in a trade agreement signed one year ago.

Trump impeachment: Republicans seek delay until February

Members of the ex-president's party say he deserves "a full and fair process that respects his rights".

Google threatens to withdraw search engine from Australia

The tech giant says it will remove its main search function from Australia if it passes a new law.

Julie Payette: Canada governor general quits amid bullying claims

The Queen's representative says she is sorry for the lack of a healthy work environment at her office.

Paula Badosa: Australian Open player 'sorry' after revealing she has Covid

Paula Badosa reveals she has the virus and apologises for making complaints about quarantine rules.

Iraq bombing: IS says it was behind deadly suicide attacks in Baghdad

The jihadists said the biggest bombing in Iraq's capital for three years was aimed at Shia Muslims.

Wuhan anniversary: How China tackled its Covid pandemic

The world's first coronavirus lockdown began in Wuhan a year ago - how has China changed since then?

Steinmetz trial: Swiss verdict for tycoon in Guinea mine corruption trial

The trial of Israeli businessman Beny Steinmetz is seen as the biggest corruption case in mining.

Facebook's Oversight Board to rule on Trump ban

The new board will decide whether the former president can use Facebook and Instagram again.

Africa's long wait for the Covid-19 vaccine

Africa will have to wait "weeks if not months" before getting WHO-approved vaccines, officials say.

Bridgerton second series 'exciting', says writer

The author behind the book speaks exclusively to the BBC about the news of a second series.

Covid-19: Caring for five younger siblings at age 25

Vanessa Pérez, 25, and her siblings lost their mother to Covid. She's now the primary caregiver.

Manaus: Brazil's city on the Amazon river buckles under second Covid wave

Doctors in the Amazon's biggest city, Manaus, are struggling to control rising numbers of deaths and cases.

President Biden and unity: Can the next generation unify America?

Democrat Ala'a and Republican Caleb, both 16, on whether President Biden's call for unity can be achieved.

The vehicle that got a village smiling

When her friends died in childbirth, a Nigerian woman hatched a plan to make a difference.

Serum Institute: Fire at world's largest vaccine producer kills five

The company says production of the Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine has not been affected.

Ghana 'baby-harvesting syndicate' arrested

Doctors, nurses, mothers and social workers are apprehended after babies were sold for $5,000.

UK and EU in row over bloc's diplomatic status

The EU's top representative in London is not being given the same privileges as other ambassadors.

Biden inauguration: Katy's anthem, Bernie's mittens and other offbeat moments

A poet laureate, a fist bump and lots of winter clothing - all the things you might have missed.

Biden inauguration leaves QAnon believers in disarray

Followers of the baseless conspiracy theory are split over failed inauguration day predictions.

Biden to sign 10 executive orders to tackle Covid

He will order increased vaccinations, more testing and expanded production of essential equipment.

Inside Biden's new-look Oval Office

Busts of influential civil rights leaders sit alongside portraits of famous presidents.

Coronavirus: Hungary first in EU to approve Russian vaccine

Its health authorities give preliminary approval to the Russian-developed Sputnik V coronavirus jab.

Italian coastguard recover huge whale carcass

They were led to the dead mammal by a young whale calf in distress.

Iraq attack: Twin suicide bombings in central Baghdad kill 13

The attackers detonated explosive belts at a clothing market in Tayaran Square, officials say.

Australia Day row: PM Morrison criticises Cricket Australia over words' removal

Scott Morrison criticises Cricket Australia for dumping references to the controversial holiday.

Star-studded concert marks Joe Biden's inauguration

Foo Fighters, John Legend, Demi Lovato and Katy Perry all play the Celebrating America concert.

Manila police chief faces sack over rape probe

Was Christine Dacera raped and murdered? Differing accounts in the Philippines have caused outrage.

China's telecom giants ask for Wall Street relisting

The New York Stock Exchange has already changed its mind several times about delisting the companies.

The story of Trump's last day and Biden's inauguration

A look back at the moments that defined a historic day in the US capital.

Kamala Harris: 'Believe in what we can do together'

The new US vice-president speaks of the values President Joe Biden wants to "summon" in America.

Elephants counted from space for conservation

Satellite imagery is being used to count elephants in a breakthrough that could aid conservation.

Coronavirus: How President Biden plans to tackle the pandemic

America's new president has promised to spend $1.9tn on combatting Covid-19, with a pledge to vaccinate 100 million people in his first 100 days.

Covid: Israel vaccine fears 'out of context and inaccurate'

Israel is likely to be the first country to see an impact from vaccination - but it is still too early.

Race in South Africa: 'We haven't learnt we are human beings first'

A teacher was charged with fraud for describing himself as "African".

Do you 'Zoom lunch' with home-working colleagues?

Some firms are encouraging staff who are working from home to take their lunch breaks together.

Biden inauguration: Global media consider 'colossal challenge'

The US's allies - and enemies - have been setting out their hopes for the new administration.

Yellow: K-pop artist Lim Kim bites back against stereotypes

Lim Kim says her music challenges prejudices about Asian women and attacks Orientalism.

Joe Biden inauguration: 46th US president takes oath of office

The new president is sworn into office by Chief Justice John G Roberts.

Kamala Harris sworn in as vice-president

Kamala Harris is sworn in as US's first female, Black and south Asian vice-president.

President Joe Biden inauguration speech: 'Democracy has prevailed'

Joe Biden makes his inaugural address as the 46th president of the United States.

Trump: 'I wish new administration great luck and success'

Outgoing US President tells his supporters that "we will be back in some form".

Madrid explosion leaves two dead

At least two people have died in a suspected gas blast that destroyed four floors of a building.

Tunisia youths warned over riots amid Covid curfew

Protests continued for a fifth night over high unemployment and an economic crisis.

Biden inauguration: New president to be sworn in amid Trump snub

Joe Biden's inauguration as 46th US president will mark a new chapter from Donald Trump's legacy.

South Africa 'Dr Death' row: Clinics defend Basson's right to practise

The cardiologist, who works in Cape Town, once headed the apartheid-era secret germ warfare programme.

Trump leaves Washington, snubbing inauguration

Donald Trump and his wife Melania depart on Marine One hours ahead of his successor Joe Biden's inauguration.

Sibusiso Moyo: Zimbabwe foreign minister dies from Covid-19

The southern African state has recorded a surge in cases since the end of the festive season.

Navalny video: Putin palace claims reach millions for jailed critic

The jailed opposition figure alleges the property was paid for "with the largest bribe in history".

Prada drops Chinese actress over alleged surrogacy row

The actress has been accused of abandoning children she had through a surrogate.

Jack Ma makes first appearance since October

Fears had grown over the Alibaba founder's whereabouts because of pressure from Chinese authorities.

Natural wonder: Wing 'clap' solves mystery of butterfly flight

The cupped clap of a butterfly's wings may be the key to their flying abilities and their survival.

Biden inauguration: Democrat to be sworn in as Trump leaves office

The new president will take the oath of office in a Washington DC fortified against any civil unrest.

Trump pardons Bannon in final acts of clemency

Donald Trump pardons 73 people, including former aide Steve Bannon, in one of his last acts as president.

Audi to make electric cars with China's oldest carmaker FAW

FAW counts Red Flag limousines, used by China's communist party leaders, among its products.

SLS: Nasa finds cause of 'megarocket' test shutdown

An issue with hydraulic systems led to the early shutdown of a test for Nasa's new "megarocket".

Coronavirus: Why South Africa has yet to roll out vaccines

South Africa is the worst-hit country in Africa, but has not yet started doing Covid-19 vaccinations.

Coronavirus: French students highlight pandemic's mental health toll

Student protests around the country are set to highlight the mental health impacts of the pandemic.

Greece #Metoo: Women ending silence of sport abuse shake Greece

The decision by ex-champion Sofia Bekatorou to describe how she was assaulted leads to a #Metoo moment.

Iran nuclear deal: What are Biden's plans and challenges

With so much hostility - and mistrust - between Washington and Tehran, will President Biden be able to revive the nuclear deal?

Luke Grenfell-Shaw: Cycling around the world with cancer

After discovering an "enormous" tumour under his shoulder blade, Luke Grenfell-Shaw has just completed the first part of his round-the-world challenge.

Epiphany: Orthodox Christians across Russia brave icy dip

Orthodox Christians take an icy dip to commemorate a special day.

Trump presidency: A flashback through four turbulent years

Donald Trump won a surprise victory in 2016 partly because he promised to shake things up. And boy, did he.

Thai woman jailed for record 43 years for criticising monarchy

The sentence is the country's harshest ever for insulting the monarchy.

Stolen 500-year-old painting found in Naples cupboard

The artwork has been returned to an Italian museum - whose staff were unaware it was missing.

US historians on what Donald Trump's legacy will be

The last four years have been a whirlwind - we asked the experts to break down Trump's key moments.

Italy PM Conte faces crucial Senate vote to stay in power

The vote in Italy's upper house was triggered by a row over EU funds to tackle Covid.

Egyptian woman arrested for baking 'indecent' cakes

Photos of the cakes, some topped with genitalia fashioned out of fondant icing, went viral online.

Boeing 737 Max to be cleared to fly in Europe

The EU's aviation agency says clearance will be given next week for the aircraft, grounded after two crashes.

Japan: One dead as snowstorm causes 130-car pile-up

One person is killed and at least 10 are injured after cars collide on the Tohoku Expressway.

ONA: Vegan restaurant becomes first in France to get Michelin star

ONA in the south-west is the first eatery serving plant-based food to win a prestigious Michelin star.

Tandav: Amazon drama apologises for Hindu offence

The Amazon Prime drama starring Saif Ali Khan was accused of 'deliberately mocking Hindu gods'.

Surat accident: Truck crushes 16 migrant workers to death in India

They were sleeping on the pavement next to a motorway when a truck ran them over in Gujarat state.

Migrant caravan: Mexico presses US to reform immigration policies

The Mexican president spoke out as thousands gather in Guatemala en route to Mexico and the US.

Fang Fang: Author vilified for Wuhan Diary speaks out a year on

Wuhan writer Fang Fang talks about the price she has had to pay for her controversial lockdown diaries.

Olivier Duhamel: French incest allegations prompt victims to speak out

A sex abuse case involving a well-known intellectual sparked a deluge of testimonies by victims of abuse.

Why Iran’s nuclear facilities are still vulnerable to attack

Putting sites underground does not mean they're beyond the reach of those who want them scuppered.

Italy smoking: Want to light up in Milan? Not any more, you can't

Smoking within 10m (30ft) of others is no longer allowed in parks, play areas, bus and tram stops.

The schoolboy who witnessed a colonial massacre

The shooting dead of striking miners in 1949 continues to have resonance in Nigeria today.

How a robot investigator searched 60 million files

Artificial intelligence helped investigators in a daunting examination of Airbus's business.

Tunisia protests: Hundreds arrested as clashes continue

Demonstrators angered by high unemployment and an economic crisis clash with police.

Biden says travel bans will stay despite Trump order

The US president-elect dismisses a White House order lifting entry bans for much of Europe and Brazil.

Kyrgios criticises Djokovic over Australian Open quarantine row

Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios takes aim at Novak Djokovic ahead of the Australian Open.

Conquering K2 in winter 'together'

The BBC speaks to Nirmal Purja, among the first Nepalese climbers who reached the K2 summit in winter.

Ethiopia Tigray crisis: Fear of mass starvation

Conflict in the Ethiopia region has created a "dire" situation, an official said in leaked notes.

Uganda election: Internet restored but social media blocked

Online services were restricted ahead of last week's vote, and social media remains blocked.

Australian Open 2021: 'No special treatment' for tennis players in Melbourne

Tennis players living under strict quarantine rules before the Australian Open will get "no special treatment", says Victorian premier Daniel Andrews.

Github apologises for firing Jewish employee who warned about 'Nazis'

The Jewish employee had warned co-workers about the danger of Nazis during the Capitol Riots.

Aditya Singh: Man found 'living in airport for three months' over Covid fears

Aditya Singh was reportedly afraid to fly due to Covid-19, so lived in Chicago's O'Hare airport.

Lee Jae Yong: Samsung heir gets prison term for bribery scandal

A South Korean court sentenced Lee Jae Yong to two and a half years in prison.

Alexei Navalny: EU and US demand release of poisoned Putin critic

Alexei Navalny returned to Moscow from Germany months after a nerve agent attack nearly killed him.

Australia unlikely to fully reopen border in 2021, says top official

The border closure is likely to remain even with widespread vaccinations, a top official says.

Migrant caravan: Guatemala blocks thousands bound for US

Security forces block a caravan of thousands that could pose an early test for the Biden White House.

Trapped Chinese miners' note sparks hopes for rescue

Rescuers say at least 12 workers are alive a week after an explosion blocked the mine's exit.

Covid-19: China's economy grows in fourth quarter, bucking global trend

China's economy grew at 2.3% for the year, making it the only major economy to see growth last year.

The Capitol Police officer in a MAGA hat. What’s the real story?

He coordinated with Trump supporters during the Capitol riot - but new video suggests it was part of a ploy.

Covid: Brazil approves and rolls out AstraZeneca and Sinovac vaccines

A nurse receives the first jab, after months of delay and political discord over the programme.

Yemen: The doctor alone in a Covid-ravaged hospital

As war-torn Yemen braces itself for a second wave of Covid-19, one doctor tells her story of battling the pandemic alone after her colleagues fled.

Nazi Ravensbrück camp: How ordinary women became SS torturers

Female SS guards enjoyed home comforts at a camp where they tortured thousands of inmates.

Biden inauguration: How the White House gets ready for a new president

Taking down pictures and clearing out desks is part of a huge operation readying for a new president.

A wristband that tells your boss if you are unhappy

Technology to help our mental wellbeing has grown in popularity during the coronavirus lockdowns.

US in Somalia: 'We still need the Americans for security'

A partial withdrawal of US troops from Somalia is coming at a critical time for the country.

Capitol riots: Are US militia groups becoming more active?

Following the events at the US Capitol, there are concerns about the activity of militia groups.

Alexei Navalny: What happened when he returned to Russia?

The prominent Kremlin critic was detained moments after arriving in Moscow, and wasn't allowed to bring his lawyer with him.

Biden inauguration: Fortified US statehouses see scattered protests

Small groups - some armed - gather in US cities, amid tight security before Joe Biden's inauguration.

Racism in education: How truth pages helped students fight back

'Truth pages', where students share their experiences of racism, have snowballed on social media since the killing of George Floyd.

Covid-19: The road back to Wuhan

The BBC's Stephen McDonell visits Wuhan ahead of the anniversary of the world's first Covid-19 lockdown.

Covid-19: Australian Open competitors practice in isolation hotels

Some competitors must stay in their hotel rooms, following positive Covid cases on inbound flights.

Lai Chi-Wai raises HK$5.2m for charity climbing Nina Towers

Former climbing champion Lai Chi-Wai raised HK$5.2 million for spinal cord patients.

Jailed music producer Phil Spector dies at 81

Spector transformed pop music with his "wall of sound", but in 2009 was jailed for killing actress Lana Clarkson.

Greek sailing official quits after Olympic champion's sex abuse claim

Aristeidis Adamopoulos quits but denies wrongdoing after allegations from a sailing gold medallist.

'Clashes kill 48 people' in Sudan's Darfur region

Fighting erupted after a man was stabbed in a row between two men from different ethnic groups.

Obituary: Phil Spector

The producer who transformed pop music and died while serving a jail sentence for murder.

Russia Navalny: Poisoned opposition leader due to fly home

The opposition leader has been recovering in Germany, but expects arrest when he lands in Moscow.

Indonesia earthquake: Heavy rain hampers search for survivors

The death toll has now risen to 73 following the powerful tremor on Sulawesi island on Friday.

Airline industry needs up to another $80bn to survive pandemic

The world's airlines need another $70-$80bn of government aid to get through the pandemic, the industry says.

Biden inauguration: Executive orders to reverse Trump policies

The new president will repeal Trump travel bans and re-join the Paris climate accord after being sworn in.

Uganda election: Bobi Wine 'fearful for life' after Museveni win

The main opposition candidate rejects the result that saw President Museveni win a sixth term.

Fighting for the Parthenon marbles

In the 1980s Greece demanded Britain return the Parthenon marbles, a sculptural frieze removed by Lord Elgin almost two hundred years earlier.

Afghanistan conflict: Female judges shot dead in Kabul

The two women were targeted by gunmen while travelling to their office in a vehicle, officials say.

Covid-19 cases force Australian Open players into lockdown

Dozens of top players are forced to isolate for 14 days, throwing their preparations into disarray.

G7: UK to host Cornwall seaside summit in summer

The leaders of the US, France, Germany and other leading economies will meet in Cornwall in June.

Dr Dre: Rap legend returns home after brain aneurysm

In a tweet, fellow rapper Ice-T said he had spoken to Dr Dre, who was "safe and looking good".

Wilmington 1898: When white supremacists overthrew a US government

In 1898 a white mob stormed Wilmington, North Carolina and forced locally elected leaders to resign.

The Instagrammers who worry Iran

From "extreme" selfies to dancing to pop - the fun posts considered a crime.

Are women let down by period trackers?

Millions of women use apps to track their menstrual cycle, but many say they do not work well enough.

How Gambia is grappling with gruesome past under Yahya Jammeh

Gambia's truth commission has revealed tales of murder and torture that jar with Gambians' self image.

Lekki toll gate shootings: What really happened?

Mayeni Jones investigates what happened when the army opened fire on protesters in Lagos in October.

The man startling millions of starlings with lasers

During starling season in winter, up to four million of the birds descend on Rome, covering streets and vehicles with their droppings.

Covid-19: France begins 6pm curfew

Prime Minister Jean Castex said the measures would be in place for at least 15 days.

SLS: Nasa's 'megarocket' set to fire up engines in crucial test

The four main engines for Nasa's new "megarocket" are to be fired in unison for the first time.

Mount Semeru: Erupting volcano spews ash above Indonesia's Java island

Mount Semeru has erupted, pouring volcanic matter miles into the air and placing locals on alert.

Capitol riots: What are far-right Trump supporters saying?

Members of the extreme right are searching for new online homes, amid paranoia that they are being ‘set up’ by the authorities.

ICYMI: Spacing out and a famous frozen waterfall

From a fitness-obsessed sausage dog to other news in our weekly video round up: In Case You Missed It.

Nepali climbers make history with winter summit of K2 mountain

K2, almost the height of Everest, is the world's last major mountain to be topped during winter.

Biden inauguration: All 50 US states on alert for armed protests

National Guard troops from across the country descend on Washington DC amid tightened security.

Uganda: Veteran leader Yoweri Museveni declared election winner

But his main rival Bobi Wine claims vote-rigging and vows to produce evidence.

Armin Laschet elected leader of Merkel's CDU party

Centrist Armin Laschet is now in a good position to succeed Angela Merkel as Germany's chancellor.

Dustin Higgs: Final execution of Trump presidency is carried out

The execution of Dustin Higgs, 48, is the 13th federal death sentence carried out since July.

Covid: UK variant could drive 'rapid growth' in US cases, CDC warns

Health officials warn the highly contagious UK Covid variant could become the dominant strain by March.

Trump's Christian supporters and the march on the Capitol

Christian supporters of President Trump were among the thousands who descended on Washington.

Ethiopia's Oromia conflict: Why a teacher was killed 'execution-style'

An increasing number of civilians are becoming victims of the conflict in Ethiopia's Oromia region.

India to begin first round of massive Covid vaccination programme

Health and frontline workers are first in line for jabs at vaccination centres across the country.

Covid in California: The state is struggling to contain the virus

California's poor residents are among those hardest hit by the pandemic.

Brexit: End to Gibraltar land border prompts joy and trepidation

For residents on both sides of the border there are hopes of an end to queues, but not everyone is convinced.

US Election 2020: What do countries around the world want from Joe Biden?

The BBC World Service speaks to reporters in six regions around the world about the hopes and expectations for Joe Biden's administration.

Martin Luther King Jr: New documentary on FBI surveillance

New documentary highlights extent of the FBI surveillance of the US civil rights leader.

Project 17: One girl's quest for clean water in Rwanda

Joyce, 17, explores progress towards the goal of clean water for all in her country, Rwanda.

Dutch Rutte government to resign over child welfare fraud scandal

Mark Rutte's cabinet is to resign after families were wrongly accused and many faced financial problems.

German sports doctor jailed over blood doping scandal

Mark Schmidt masterminded an international doping ring exposed by police in "Operation Aderlass".

Nazi Buchenwald camp no place for sledging, authorities warn

German officials say some people have used Buchenwald mass graves as a toboggan run.

Uganda elections 2021: Museveni takes early lead as Bobi Wine cries foul

President Museveni's rival alleges the internet shutdown allows for rigging in the election count.

Joe the pigeon spared by Australia after leg tag found to be fake

Officials will take no further action after concluding the bird is "highly likely to be Australian".

North Korea: Kim Jong-un oversees huge military showcase

Planes, missiles and marching troops are on show as North Korean state media broadcasts a massive parade.

NYC bendy bus left dangling from overpass in Bronx

Several people are hurt as a bus plunges from an overpass in the Bronx on to an access road below.

Colourising historical photos of the civil rights movement

Jordan J Lloyd has added digital colour to black-and-white photos of Dr King and the civil rights movement.

Salvador Cienfuegos: Mexico clears ex-defence minister over US drugs link claims

Salvador Cienfuegos's arrest by US investigators last year caused a rift between the two countries.

Several dead and hundreds injured in Indonesia

At least seven people are killed and hundreds injured in a quake on Sulawesi.

Thailand allows visitors to play golf in quarantine

At six resorts, visitors will be able to play golf, rather than just having to isolate in their rooms.

Trump takes final swipe at China's biggest companies

With just days left, the US president continues crackdown on Chinese firms with more sanctions and bans.

North Korea unveils new submarine-launched missile

The show of military strength comes days before the inauguration of Joe Biden as US president.

US has conceded too much to Taliban, says Afghan vice-president

The Afghan vice-president tells the BBC that the latest US troop withdrawal will lead to violence.

Biden unveils $1.9tn US economic relief package

The plan would help communities the US president-elect says have been hit hardest by the pandemic.

China’s pressure and propaganda - the reality of reporting Xinjiang

In addition to heavy restrictions on journalists in the Xinjiang region, China alleges “fake news”.

Taliban cracks down on 'costly' polygamy

The group's leader in Afghanistan says the practice is "inviting criticism". It's also proving expensive.

Rajini Chandy: The 69-year-old Indian actress trolled for ‘too sexy’ photos

Rajini Chandy, a southern Indian actress, has raised hackles in a state where women still dress modestly.

Villarejo: The rise and fall of the Spanish state's secret fixer

An undercover policeman now facing trial amassed a hoard of Spanish state secrets.

German chancellor race: The men vying for Merkel's job

Three candidates are challenging to lead Angela Merkel's CDU, but the race may not end there.

Uganda social media row raises question over regulation in Africa

There will be increasing tension between the platforms and African governments, analysts say.

Young, black and more likely to die in Brazil

A BBC investigation uncovers who is most at risk of lethal police violence in Brazil.

Johan 'N0tail' Sundstein: Inside the world's richest esports player's mansion

Johan Sundstein, aka "N0tail", has earned more than $7.4m (£5.4m) in prize money to date.

India's Kumbh Mela festival begins amid Covid concerns

Thousands of Hindus arrive for the bathing festival despite warnings to stay away during the pandemic.

Armie Hammer: Actor pulls out of film over 'vicious' online abuse

Armie Hammer dismisses supposedly leaked messages and says he can now not be apart from his children.

Italy political crisis erupts over EU Covid spending

Prime Minister Conte's government is torpedoed by ex-PM Renzi pulling ministers from his party out.

Trump impeachment: President faces Senate trial after historic second charge

The US president could be barred from holding public office again after his second impeachment.

Australia to kill US pigeon that crossed Pacific

Officials say the bird, which is thought to have travelled on a cargo ship, is a biosecurity risk.

US pet food recalled after 70 dogs die and others fall sick

Tests on the pet food have shown potentially unsafe levels of aflatoxins, a by-product of mould.

Amazon faces legal challenge over Prime cancellation policy

Consumer watchdogs say the manipulative "dark pattern" design makes it hard for people to end membership.

Covid: WHO team probing origin of virus arrives in China

The scientists investigating the origins of the coronavirus have landed in the city of Wuhan.

Bullets sent to Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou

Under house arrest in Canada on bank fraud charges, Ms Meng has reportedly received death threats.

Twitter boss: Trump ban is 'right' but 'dangerous'

Jack Dorsey acknowledges that banning the president undermines the ideals of an open internet.

Indonesia: Archaeologists find world's oldest animal cave painting

The life-sized picture of a wild pig found in a remote cave is thought to be 45,000 years old.

Flint water crisis: Michigan charges ex-governor Rick Snyder

It follows a new investigation into the deadly contamination of water in the Michigan city in 2014.

How did the pilot survive this plane crash?

Surveillance footage shows the moment a plane fell out of the sky in Oyster Bay, New York.

New York City is latest to cut Trump business ties

The Trump Organization has contracts with the city to run skating rinks, a carousel and a golf course.

Has coronavirus made us more ethical consumers?

Studies show shoppers on both sides of the Atlantic are more ethically and environmentally minded.

How much can Joe Biden get done on the US economy?

The new US president may have more scope to make change than initially thought.

Capitol riots: Did Trump's words at rally incite violence?

Donald Trump stands accused of inciting violence that left five people dead. So what did the president say?

Moment Trump impeached for second time

The US House of Representatives has voted with a trial due to begin in the Senate in the coming days.

Trump impeachment: Republicans defend - and some attack - president

Ten Republicans voted to impeach the president this time - but most in the party came to his defence.

Trump: 'Violence and vandalism have no place in our country'

US President Donald Trump called on his supporters to make their voices heard peacefully.

Trump impeachment: What happens to impeached presidents?

Johnson, Nixon and Clinton: Mr Trump follows three US presidents who have already faced impeachment.

Uganda elections 2021: Yoweri Museveni faces Bobi Wine in presidential contest

Veteran Yoweri Museveni stands against singer-turned-politician Bobi Wine in a hotly contested poll.

Rap against Dictatorship: The rappers taking on Thailand's leaders

Thai group Rap Against Dictatorship is known for its outspoken comments against the military and monarchy,

Capitol riots: How many arrests so far?

How many rioters have been arrested so far - and who are they?

Syria war: Suspected Israeli strikes on Iran-linked targets 'kill dozens'

Israeli aircraft reportedly attacked a series of Iran-linked targets in eastern Syria overnight.

Investigation after 'Nazi monkey' appears in Russian circus

Images appear to show a monkey wearing a Nazi uniform performing at a state circus last week.

Russia Navalny: Poisoned opposition leader says he will fly home

Alexei Navalny says he will fly back on 17 January, months after he was sent to Germany for treatment.

Bruce Willis admits 'error of judgement' over face mask

The Die Hard actor was reportedly asked to leave an LA store for refusing to wear a face covering.

Australia: Spectacular ‘tree of life’ found in lake

An amateur photographer’s aerial photos are gaining attention for this little known "natural wonder".

Wonder Woman 1984: Actress Lilly Aspell reveals how a chance encounter led her to the role

Lilly Aspell got the Wonder Woman 1984 part despite never acting before and does all her own stunts.

YouTube suspends Donald Trump's channel

The Google-owned service said the president had broken its rules over the incitement of violence.

Shincheonji: Korean sect leader found not guilty of breaking virus law

Lee Man-hee was however found guilty of embezzlement and handed a suspended jail term.

Lisa Montgomery: US executes only woman on federal death row

Lisa Montgomery, who killed a pregnant woman and took her baby, died by lethal injection in Indiana.

YFN Lucci: US rapper wanted in Atlanta for suspected murder

Police in Atlanta want to question YFN Lucci, 29, over a fatal shooting in the city last month.

Sinovac: Brazil results show Chinese vaccine 50.4% effective

Latest results show Sinovac's Covid-19 vaccine is less effective than previous data suggested.

Impeachment: Republicans begin to turn on Trump

A top House Republican says she will vote to impeach Mr Trump over last week's US Capitol riot.

Kelly Craft: US cancels top envoy's visit to Taiwan

The trip planned by Donald Trump's outgoing administration had infuriated China.

Huawei patent mentions use of Uighur-spotting tech

The company denies selling technology that can identify the ethnic group and plans to reword the patent.

Is this the world's smartest face mask?

Gaming company Razer claims to have made the world's most technologically advanced mask

Philippines: Anti-'drug war' priest charged with sedition

A vocal anti-"drug war" Catholic priest in the Philippines is to stand trial on charges of sedition.

Coon Cheese rebrands in Australia after anti-racism campaign

The 86-year-old name will disappear in Australia from July, after a campaign by Aboriginal groups.

Is seeing your doctor on online working?

The coronavirus pandemic has helped spark a boom in virtual doctor's visits.

'Ndrangheta group: Italy braces for biggest mafia trial in decades

Hundreds of people will face a judge following a major inquiry into the 'Ndrangheta criminal group.

Indonesia coronavirus: The vaccination drive targeting younger people

Instead of inoculating the elderly, Indonesia is focusing on working-age adults. Will it succeed?

Kuwait's stateless man who set himself alight

Hamad had descended into despair, one of a Kuwaiti community denied rights for generations.

Viewpoint: Global media's Nigeria abductions coverage 'wrong'

Novelist Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani criticises coverage of the kidnapping of schoolchildren.

Covid: Eyesight risk warning from lockdown screen time

More than a third of people using screens more in lockdown reported eyesight changes, a study suggests.

Coronavirus: Lebanon to impose 11-day curfew as hospitals struggle

People will be forbidden from leaving their homes from Thursday and must rely on food deliveries.

Diary Sow: Talented Senegal student disappears in France

An investigation is opened into the disappearance of Diary Sow who has not been seen since 4 January.

Florida manatee with 'Trump' etched on back prompts investigation

An investigation is launched after the marine mammal was found with the president's name on its body.

India's top court puts controversial farm laws on hold

Farmers have been camped outside capital Delhi demanding the repeal of the laws.

Lisa Montgomery: Judge halts execution of only woman on US death row

The judge orders a mental competency hearing to be held - just hours before the scheduled execution.

Kelly Craft: US envoy's 'last-minute' Taiwan visit angers China

The trip comes as Washington lifts long-standing curbs on official interactions with Taipei.

Irish mother and baby homes report to be published

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the findings of the report are a "shocking and difficult read".

Firms scrap political donations over Capitol riots

Many companies say they won't donate to Senators who refused to certify President-elect Biden's win.

China: Make-up wipes ad pulled over victim-blaming claims

The Chinese ad sparked outrage for allegedly implying that women were to blame for unwanted attention.

Sriwijaya Air crash: Indonesia's black box locator damaged

Authorities are still searching for the data recorders of the crashed Sriwijaya Air plane.

US private equity firm eyes stake in All Blacks

New Zealand's national treasure has burned through nearly half of its cash reserves due to lockdowns.

Bill Belichick: NFL coach turns down Presidential Medal of Freedom

New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick turns down Donald trump's offer, citing the Capitol riots.

Uganda elections 2021: What you need to know

Five things you need to know about Uganda's divisive election.

Brexit leaves Spain's Costa Brits facing dilemmas

British expats in Spain tell the BBC how the new post-Brexit rules have changed their lives.

Silencing Trump: How 'big tech' is taking Trumpism offline

Within days tech giants have moved to "deplatform" the president and some of his supporters.

Danke Apartment: The 'broken eggshell' that left young Chinese homeless

The Danke housing controversy has exposed the vulnerability of young workers in China's cities.

Hindu shrine desecration: Can Pakistan protect its religious minorities?

The destruction of a sacred shrine by a mob has left Pakistan's Hindu minority feeling vulnerable.

Cuba placed back on US terrorism sponsor list

Donald Trump made the decision days before Joe Biden, who wants friendlier US-Cuban ties, takes office.

Which Covid vaccine is better? Pfizer v Oxford v Moderna

Three vaccines have been approved in the UK - what are the differences between them?

Stammering: 'I thought it made me a failure'

Joe Biden will be the first known president with a stammer to take office.

Plastic surgery: Surgeons who target black women and use influencers for promotion

A BBC investigation finds women suffered life changing conditions after going to Turkey for surgery.

Being a TikTok influencer without the internet

Wasil lives in Jammu Kashmir and for more than a year the Indian government has blocked connectivity in the region.

Brexit: UK driver has ham sandwiches confiscated at Dutch border

Dutch TV films officials confiscating ham sandwiches from UK drivers under new food import rules.

Trump impeachment move: Democrats start push to oust US president

A charge accuses the president of "incitement of insurrection" for his role in deadly Capitol riots.

Capitol police officer Eugene Goodman heralded as 'a hero'

Footage of the riot shows Mr Goodman lure a mob away from the Senate and the lawmakers hiding inside.

Sri Lanka: War monument to be rebuilt after hunger strike

A memorial to Tamils killed in Sri Lanka's civil war is to be rebuilt after protests at its demolition.

Uganda elections 2021: Facebook shuts government-linked accounts

The government accuses the social media giant of bias days before hotly contested elections.

Why this female garbage truck driver hopes more women will join her

Belinda Janson hopes she won't be the only woman driving garbage trucks in Ipswich, Australia, for long.

'Your move, Mr President': North Korea sets the stage for Biden

Kim Jong-un says he wants more and better weapons - so how will the next US president respond?

California prison break: Six inmates on run after improvised rope escape

The "armed and dangerous" men used an improvised rope made of braided sheets to escape.

Pope Francis backs women's roles in Catholic services

Pope Francis welcomes women performing Catholic rites, though they cannot become priests.

Yemen war: US to designate Houthi rebels as terrorist organisation

Aid groups say it may threaten operations in areas where millions of people are facing starvation.

William Burns: Biden nominates veteran diplomat as CIA director

William Burns, who served for three decades as a diplomat, was key in reaching the Iran nuclear deal.

Ugandans warned not to eat dead fish washed ashore

This comes after a large-scale death of fish was reported on Lake Victoria and the River Nile.

Which country has been hit hardest by coronavirus?

Key charts and maps explaining how the virus has spread around the world.

In pictures: Storm Filomena hits Spain as Greeks bask in heatwave

Spain has seen heavy snow and plunging temperatures, while in Greece it is unusually warm.

China's Baidu and Geely partner up for smart cars

The search engine giant and carmaker will go up against Tesla and other homegrown competitors.

Parler social network drops offline after Amazon pulls support

The platform had been reliant on Amazon's cloud computing service, which has pulled its support.

Trump National stripped of 2022 US PGA Championship

Trump National in Bedminster is stripped of the 2022 US PGA Championship, with organisers saying using the course would be "detrimental".

Snow storms bring deadly chaos to Japan

Japan is hit by severe snow storms, killing at least eight and bringing some regions to a standstill.

Beny Steinmetz: Mining billionaire goes on trial in Guinea

Beny Steinmetz denies allegations of corruption over a major mining deal in Guinea.

Women's Six Nations: Tournament set to be pushed back to April

The 2021 Women's Six Nations is set to be pushed back and start in April because of issues around coronavirus.

Sriwijaya Air crash: Indonesia divers search wreckage as black box hunt resumes

Divers resume their search for the black boxes after a passenger plane crashed into the Java Sea.

China brings in new law to fight Trump's sanctions

Chinese officials are bracing for more punitive measures in Donald Trump's final days in office.

Uganda elections 2021: Who is Bobi Wine?

Uganda's Bobi Wine is aiming to unseat President Yoweri Museveni after 35 years in power.

Kyrgyzstan election: Sadyr Japarov looks set for landslide victory

Early results show Sadyr Japarov with 80% - and could see him enjoy sweeping new presidential powers.

Trump impeachment: Democrats prepare to act over Capitol riot

Congress could vote as early as Tuesday on charges against Donald Trump, a senior Democrat says.

Storm Filomena: Spain races to clear snow before temperatures drop

The government says it has taken extra measures to ensure Covid vaccines get distributed as planned.

Indonesia landslide: Rescuers buried as they help victims

Two landslides hit the same village in Indonesia within hours, leaving emergency teams trapped.

Six rangers killed in DR Congo's Virunga National Park

Mai-Mai militia group is being blamed for the ambush at a famous park where endangered gorillas live.

Indonesia Sriwijaya Air crash: Distraught relatives await news

Information is emerging about those on board the Sriwijaya Air flight that crashed off Indonesia.

ICYMI: A ‘singing’ lake and a lava fountain

From some chilled out phenomena to feeling the heat in our weekly video round up: In Case You Missed It.

Twitter deletes China embassy's Xinjiang 'emancipation' tweet

China had claimed its birth control policies - widely seen as a crackdown - gave women more freedom.

India allege racist abuse in third Australia Test

Cricket Australia apologises to India and investigates claims visiting players were subjected to racist abuse from fans during the third Test.

The secret artists creating miniature buildings for street mice

From record stores to pharmacies, secret artist group AnonyMouse have been creating little places for mice.

Indonesia Boeing 737 passenger plane crash site found, Navy says

Ships with navy divers are sent to the site where a plane is believed to have plunged into the sea.

Viewpoint: What the Capitol riot means for US foreign policy

President-elect Joe Biden needs to unite his nation to fix US policy abroad, Jonathan Marcus writes.

Singapore: Why these defiant 'nail house' owners refuse to sell

A block of luxury flats in Singapore is being built around two homes whose owners refuse to move.

Albania races to rescue children from jihadist camp

Why Albania wants to repatriate dozens of youngsters from al-Hol in northern Syria.

Uganda elections 2021: How ex-rebel Yoweri Museveni has stayed in power for 35 years