Abounding Opportunities

Their petition gained more than 180,000 signatures and led to a change in the law.

Ayia Napa: Mother of convicted Briton backs Cyprus boycott

The mother of a woman convicted of lying about being raped says she believes Ayia Napa is unsafe.

Palau is first country to ban 'reef toxic' sun cream

The move is designed to protect marine life around the Pacific island state.

North Korea threatens to resume nuclear and ICBM testing

Kim Jong-un says his country is developing a new 'strategic weapon', but leaves room for US talks.

Australia fires: More than 200 homes burn down on coast

Australia's fires have killed at least three people in recent days and left hundreds homeless.

What year is it?

While lots of people are celebrating the start of 2020, it's a different year altogether for some.

The story of the aeroplane house in Nigeria's capital Abuja

Said Jammal has spent 20 years building the family's unusual home in the Nigerian capital Abuja.

Are your friends bad for your health?

We tend to copy the way our friends and family behave, potentially leading us to put on weight or even divorce.

Why mature dating apps are coming of age

An increasing number of older people are turning to dating apps for mature people, in a quest for love.

What does it mean to be a black traveller?

Four millennials on being the first black person some people meet, and other issues for black tourists.

The region which legislates who you can love

LGBT activists are mounting legal battles against the Caribbean's colonial-era homophobic laws.

Australia wildfires: Fire truck overrun by bushfire flames

Firefighters in New South Wales take shelter in their truck as it is surrounded by flames.

Russia-Poland row over start of WW2 escalates

Russia condemns the US ambassador to Poland for saying the Nazi-Soviet pact triggered World War Two.

Angola court orders seizure of Isabel dos Santos's assets

The ex-president's billionaire daughter has been targeted in an anti-corruption investigation.

Syd Mead: 'Pivotal' Blade Runner designer dies

The artist and designer was praised for his "singular ability to visualise the future".

New Zealand fireworks help usher in new decade

Auckland has become the world's first major city to celebrate the start of 2020 with a bang.

Australia fires: Military to be deployed to help rescue effort

Aircraft and ships will be sent to New South Wales and Victoria, where thousands fled to the coast.

Sydney mayor defends New Year's fireworks despite protests

Clover Moore said the city's celebrations would "give hope to people" as bushfires rage.

Shuri Castle: Appeal for images to 'rebuild' burned site online

The plan hopes to create a virtual 3D version of Japan's Shuri Castle, which was destroyed by fire.

India cold wave: Delhi reels from coldest day in more than a century

The maximum day temperature plummeted to 9.4C on Monday setting a new record for the chilliest day.

Alabama police apologise for 'insensitive' homeless quilt photo

Two officers taped together cardboard signs begging for money, and posted the photo on Facebook.

Kataib Hezbollah: Iraqis protest outside US Baghdad embassy

The protesters marched into the Green Zone, chanting "Death to America" and burning US flags.

Bushfires in Australia forces thousands to flee to beach

Residents in Mallacoota, Victoria, try to escape a wall of flames heading towards the coast.

Australia bushfire emergency: 'We were all terrified for our lives'

David Jeffrey was among thousands who fled to the beach in Mallacoota as fires approached the town.

'I feel complete' in Uganda - George the Poet

London-born spoken word artist and podcaster George the Poet reflects on belonging, diaspora and his Ugandan heritage before his first gig in the country.

Huawei: 'Survival will be our priority' in 2020

The firm admits life will be "difficult" after the Trump administration banned the firm in the US.

The digital links of 2019's global protests

Protests in Hong Kong, Chile and the Middle East all shared an online presence which helped connect the movements.

UK and US considered Nigeria naval blockade over Saro-Wiwa execution

The UK and US considered an oil embargo after activist Ken Saro-Wiwa was hanged, document reveals.

2019 in news: The alternative end-of-the-year awards

From the ridiculous to the more ridiculous, the weird stories that caught the eye this year.

Citizenship Act protests: Why fear has gripped Muslims in this Indian state

The Muslim community in Uttar Pradesh is living in fear after a new citizenship law came into effect.

China internet: Top talking points of 2019 and how they evaded the censors

From rebellious numbers to state-backed trends, China's internet was a noisy place in 2019.

Africa's year in pictures 2019

A selection of the best photos from across Africa this year.

Tech 2019: Our biggest technology stories

Social media scandals dominate the list of the most-read news stories by the Tech desk this year.

'Man on the Moon' moment - the year's big breakthroughs

The year of treating the untreatable: 2019 breakthroughs that could transform medicine.

Libya conflict: Turkey to send deployment bill to parliament

It would allow Turkey to deploy troops in Libya, though it is not clear when it would be voted on.

Sudan sentences 29 to death for teacher's killing in custody

The death penalty is given to intelligence agents who tortured a detained protester to death.

Neil Innes: Monty Python songwriter dies aged 75

He was known as "The Seventh Python" as well as for The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band and The Rutles.

Ten brands that disappeared over the past decade

Toys R Us, Borders, Maplin and BHS are some big names that are no more on the High Street.

Saudi court sentences man to death for stabbing Spanish theatre group

At least three people were wounded in last month's attack on members of a Spanish theatre group.

Actress Sharon Stone blocked from dating app Bumble

Bumble told her it had received several reports that her profile was fake.

Sydney New Year's Eve fireworks to go ahead despite protests

A petition signed by more than 270,000 people had called for the fireworks display to be cancelled.

Moscow brings in artificial snow for New Year in mild winter

Artificial snow is dumped in central Moscow so that snowboarders can still have their fun.

Lolita star Sue Lyon dies aged 73

The actress won a Golden Globe for her teenage performance in the controversial Stanley Kubrick film.

Germanwings strike forces 180 flight cancellations

Cabin crew at Lufthansa's low-cost carrier are staging a three-day walkout in a long-running dispute.

When Greta Thunberg met Sir David Attenborough

The teenage activist and veteran naturalist talk to each other for the first time (via Skype).

Photo requests from solitary confinement

Artists and everyday people send images of life outside prison to inmates in solitary confinement.

China jails 'gene-edited babies' scientist for three years

He Jiankui said he altered the genes of a set of twins to try to give them protection against HIV.

South Korea to pardon 1,800 conscientious objectors

Men who refused mandatory military service were subjected to prison - and social stigma.

Tesla delivers its first 'Made in China' cars

The move comes as the US-China trade war US companies to shift production out of China.

Kim Jong-un calls for 'positive and offensive' security policy

The North Korean leader was speaking to senior party officials at a meeting in Pyongyang.

Gay in Nigeria: 'Everybody sees me as an abomination'

Five years on from Nigeria's Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act, discrimination seems to have worsened.

Autism diagnosis: 'I want 40 years of my life back'

People diagnosed with autism in adulthood describe growing up believing they were "bad" or "alien".

The Syrian town with more cats than people

The few remaining inhabitants of a bombed-out Syrian town take comfort from hundreds, perhaps thousands, of cats.

The best space images of 2019

With some blockbuster space missions underway, 2019 saw some amazing images beamed back to Earth.

'We can give a lot of the power back to the fans'

How two friends created an online storytelling platform with more than 80 million global users.

Hunting the missing millions from collapsed cryptocurrency

On the trail of almost half a billion dollars lost when the Wex exchange collapsed in 2018.

Medieval combat: A Chinese knight fights for his dream

A Chinese teacher with a passion for medieval combat hopes to take his hobby to the next level.

Texas church shooting: One killed before gunman shot dead by churchgoer

Members of congregation return fire at gunman who killed one person and critically wounded another.

US strikes militia bases in Iraq and Syria

One contractor was killed and several US troops and Iraqi personnel wounded on 27 December.

Putin thanks Trump for stopping terrorism in Russia

The Russian president says cooperation from US intelligence has prevented attacks within his country.

Pope Francis: It's good to talk, but not on mobiles

The pope cited Jesus, Mary and Joseph as an example of a family with good communication skills.

China launches new law to protect doctors

The announcement comes days after a female doctor was stabbed to death at work.

Australia bushfires: Payments make firefighters 'feel valued'

Many volunteer firefighters in New South Wales have welcomed news of compensation for lost income.

Monsey stabbing: Attack was domestic terrorism, NY governor says

New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo says he wants new laws to prosecute hate-fuelled violence.

Monsey stabbing community reaction: 'We were scared but not surprised'

At least five people have been stabbed at the house of a rabbi in New York state.

Yemen: Houthis blamed for attack on military parade

Houthi rebels have been blamed for a missile strike on a military parade that killed at least five.

The man who spent 30 years caring for crocodiles in Ethiopia

Tomas Tama has spent 30 years protecting the reptiles in Ethiopia, despite once being bitten.

Russia and Ukraine in controversial prisoner swap

Authorities hope the long-awaited exchange will ease tensions between the two countries.

Australia fires: Thousands told to evacuate in Victoria

Residents and holidaymakers in a major tourist destination in Victoria are told to leave by Monday.

Samoa lifts state of emergency over measles epidemic

A mass vaccination drive was put in place as the disease spread and killed 81 people.

'World's oldest rhino' Fausta dies in Tanzania aged 57

Fausta, a female eastern black rhino, lived in the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.

Trump faces criticism after sharing tweet naming alleged whistleblower

The president retweets a post naming the alleged whistleblower whose complaint led to his impeachment.

Monsey stabbing: Several wounded at home of New York rabbi

Police say five people were stabbed when an attacker entered the home during a Hanukkah party.

Why international rock stars are flocking to India

U2, who recently performed in Mumbai, are one among many bands lining up to tour India.

How crowds toppled communism's house of cards in 1989

The BBC's John Simpson recalls witnessing the communist bloc's collapse in three revolutions.

Why Canada's cannabis bubble burst

Justin Trudeau legalised cannabis in Canada. So why are people still breaking the law?

China and Twitter: The year Chinese diplomacy went social

This year saw a marked changed in tone from China, as more diplomats began using Twitter.

‘Gardening gives me a lot of peace’

Joanna is an urban gardener trying to reconnect with nature in Singapore.

US saw highest number of mass killings on record in 2019, database reveals

Researchers say 41 mass killings claimed 211 lives this year, even as the overall homicide rate fell.

Italian alps avalanche kills woman and two girls

The victims, believed to be German, were skiing on the Val Senales glacier in South Tyrol.

Family plea for return of son's stolen ashes in Cyprus

The parents were preparing to scatter the teenager's ashes at a scenic spot before they were robbed.

Hong Kong's year in seven intense emotions

Although politics divides, the emotions are what the city shares and tell the story of Hong Kong's year.

Transgender in Pakistan: Maya, the woman who almost broke free

Maya was one of dozens of trans women killed in Pakistan in recent years, many of the murders unsolved.

Gare du Nord: Why Europe's busiest station needs a makeover fast

The plan to revitalise Gare du Nord will include sports areas and medical labs - but critics are not convinced.

Lafayette: Plane crashes near Walmart supermarket

The small plane crashed west of Lafayette airport in Louisiana on Saturday morning.

Sydney fireworks: Thousands sign petition to halt 'traumatic' show

The petition argues that the money spent on fireworks should go to those fighting bushfires.

China ends forced labour for sex workers

Under the scheme, police were allowed to hold sex workers and their clients for up to two years.

Australia fires: Volunteer firefighters to receive compensation

Thousands of firefighters can claim up to A$6,000 ($4,200) after spending weeks battling the flames.

'Ghost boat' containing human remains washes up on Japanese island

Authorities suspect the boat may have originated from North Korea.

Sudan after Bashir: 'The revolution is on the curriculum'

Months after long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir was toppled, how has life changed for Sudanese?

Rush hour car bomb kills many in Somali capital

At least 20 people are reported killed by a massive car bomb during morning rush hour in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu.

How puppetry can help with trauma

After being trafficked for sex by her family as a child, puppeteer Raven wants to show people healing is possible through art.

'We fell in love on the dance floor’

Taiwan has been declared polio free since 2000 and some of the last polio survivors have decided to band together to dance wheelchair ballroom dancing.

Thai cave rescuer dies from year-long blood infection

Thai Navy Seal Beirut Pakbara contracted the infection during the rescue at Tham Luang cave.

Myanmar Rohingya: UN condemns human rights abuses

The UN General Assembly passes a resolution calling on Myanmar to stop hatred towards minorities.

Uruguay seizes record 4.4 tonnes of cocaine in Montevideo

The 4.4 tonne, £765m haul was found in the port of Montevideo bound for Togo in West Africa.

Edward Gallagher: Navy Seals called platoon leader 'freaking evil'

Newly released video shows testimony against Seal accused of war crimes but championed by Trump.

French government to scan social media for tax cheats

French court says government can comb profiles, posts and pictures for evidence of undeclared income.

Jeffrey Epstein case: FBI 'investigating Ghislaine Maxwell'

The British socialite and others are part of an inquiry into "people who facilitated" the financier.

India Citizenship Act protests: 'Our son was shot dead by police'

Muslims in India tell the BBC of police brutality, and why they fear losing their citizenship rights.

Morocco YouTuber Mohamed Sekkaki jailed for insulting King Mohammed VI

Mohamed Sekkaki was arrested for criticising King Mohammed's speeches.

Apple 'hacker' spared jail over iCloud blackmail

A 22-year-old Londoner admits trying to blackmail Apple by threatening to wipe iCloud accounts.

Broadway composer Jerry Herman dies aged 88

The Tony Award-winning composer wrote the music and lyrics for Hello, Dolly! and La Cage Au Falles.

Brexit: Timmermans 'love letter' says UK always welcome back in EU

EU official Frans Timmermans writes he is "deeply hurt" over Brexit but "we're not going away".

Islamic State in Nigeria 'beheads Christian hostages'

The killings are said to have been revenge for the death of the Islamic State group leader in Syria.

Sriracha hot sauce recall over 'exploding' bottle fears

The popular sauce has been recalled in Australia and New Zealand over fears it may splatter when opened.

Austria avalanche: Skier survives five hours in 'Christmas miracle'

The 26-year-old man was eventually found and dug out of a metre of snow after five hours.

Satellite constellations: Astronomers warn of threat to view of Universe

A mission to launch thousands of satellites is about to begin, but scientists say this could affect astronomy.

Has #MeToo changed Bollywood?

India's film industry was rocked by the #MeToo campaign more than a year ago - what's happened since?

Solar eclipse: Prayer, healing and beach burials in Asia

Some in Asia offered prayers and conducted cleansing or healing rituals during a rare solar eclipse.

Typhoon Phanfone: Residents start to clean up after deadly storm

Typhoon Phanfone has killed at least 13 people in the Philippines, leaving a trail of devastation through the centre of the country.

Juha Mieto: Finland’s skiing legend

Now 70 years old, Juha Mieto shows no signs of slowing down after winning five Olympic medals in his career.

Kazakhstan plane crash: Bek Air plane comes down near Almaty airport

Close to 100 people were on board the Bek Air plane, which came down after take-off near Almaty.

Typhoon Phanfone: Philippine death toll rises to 28

It led to the evacuation of more than 58,000 people and stranded thousands over the holiday period.

Kazakhstan plane crash: Bek Air plane comes down near Almaty airport

One hundred people were on board the Bek Air plane, which struck a building in Almaty.

Bruce Lee's daughter sues fast food chain over image use

Shannon Lee alleges popular restaurant Real Kungfu has used her father's image without permission.

Australia fires: Crews brace for dangerous heatwave

Crews are bracing for another dangerous period as calls grow for volunteer firefighters to be paid.

Iraq ends year in political turmoil

A political crisis is roiling Iraq, as protesters remain on the streets despite a rising death toll.

Smoking ban: Austria's cafe society calls time on cigarettes

Once dubbed the ashtray of Europe, Austria has finally banned smoking in restaurants, bars and cafes.

Inside China's child pop star factory

Young, mostly female, wannabe stars are trained for a booming industry worth billions of dollars.

The mosque siege that changed Saudi history

An armed takeover of the Grand Mosque in Mecca put a halt to the modernisation of Saudi society.

Is 'super coral' the key to saving the world's reefs?

Scientists in the Seychelles have started the world's first large scale coral reef restoration project.

The African women standing up for change in 2019

Here are the women on the continent who've been shaking the table this year.

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu claims win in party leadership challenge

Full results of the vote on the Israeli PM's party leadership have not yet been published.

Kulubá: Dig uncovers large Mayan palace in Mexico

Archaeologists believe the palace was used at the height of the Mayan civilisation, 1,000 years ago.

Home Alone 2: Canada's CBC broadcaster defends cutting Trump scene

CBC say edits to Home Alone 2 were not politically motivated, but their decision was criticised.

Peter Schreier: Leading German tenor dies at 84

A rare international star from the former East Germany, he was known for the intensity of his renditions.

Brazil police investigate fire-bombing of 'gay Jesus' film office

A Brazilian far-right religious group says it attacked the offices of group behind controversial film.

Christmas tree decorated in Chernobyl 'ghost town'

It's the first Christmas tree to be put up in Pripyat since the 1986 nuclear disaster.

Russia agents raid Alexei Navalny offices with power tools

Sparks fly as officers cut open the door of the anti-corruption foundation.

Wikipedia ban: Top court calls for Turkey to lift block

The Constitutional Court rules that the country's block on accessing Wikipedia is unconstitutional.

Russia agents raid Alexei Navalny offices with power tools

Sparks fly as bailiffs cut open the door of the anti-corruption foundation led by Alexei Navalny.

Why Vladimir Putin is angry at Poland

The Russian leader's war of words with Poland focuses on events from the distant past.

Kidnapped Afghan People's Peace Movement marchers freed

The 27 activists from the People's Peace Movement had disappeared in Farah province two days ago.

Japan hangs Chinese man in rare execution of foreigner

The Chinese man, who murdered a family of four, is the first foreigner to be executed in 10 years.

The 'ring of fire' eclipse witnessed across Asia

Crowds have gathered to watch the 'once in a lifetime' eclipse in a number of countries.

Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu in party leadership challenge

The internal election is seen as the most serious challenge to the PM's hold on his party for years.

Migrant crisis: Seven die as boat sinks in Turkey's Lake Van

The boat with 71 migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan sank in Lake Van at night.

Annular solar eclipse: Crowds in Asia gather to see 'ring of fire'

In an annular eclipse the moon covers the centre of the Sun, giving the appearance of a bright ring.

Typhoon Phanfone: Philippines counts cost of deadly storm

Typhoon Phanfone, with gusts of close to 190km/h, hit an area devastated by Typhoon Haiyan in 2013.

Trump impeachment: Lisa Murkowski 'disturbed' over co-ordination

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has pledged "total co-ordination" with the White House.

The bakery in a mental health hospital

In an unusual bakery in a mental health hospital outside Beijing, the patients are the bakers.

Radio silence: The Syrian broadcasters in exile

Emma Jane Kirby meets exiled journalists who are now off air, and have nowhere that feels like home.

The island struggling to secure its future

After being hit by a hurricane, Puerto Rico is seeking ways to counter years of economic decline.

The children at risk of eating themselves to death

"One sweet here, another one there - that could kill him," says a man whose son has Prader-Willi syndrome.

Ari Behn: Author and Norway princess's ex-husband dies aged 47

Author Ari Behn and the king's eldest child, Princess Martha Louise, divorced in 2017.

The Indian Ocean tsunami remembered by those who survived it

The story of how the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami unfolded, by those who survived.

Wolf 'snatches pet kangaroo' from Belgium home

Experts believe the marsupial could have been taken by a wolf named August, known to roam the area.

Ruslan Shaveddinov: Russian opposition activist 'kidnapped' by army

Ruslan Shaveddinov's forcible conscription to serve in the Arctic is condemned by his allies.

Iran internet 'disrupted' ahead of protests

The authorities reportedly order services to be cut off ahead of fresh planned demonstrations.

Hong Kong protests: Christmas sees no halt in clashes

Police battle activists again as Hong Kong's leader accuses "reckless rioters" of ruining Christmas.

Burkina Faso: Christmas Day in a Christian-Muslim household

Five-year-old Iris Ouattara goes to church with her dad and mosque with her mum in Burkina Faso.

Typhoon Phanfone batters the Philippines

Thousands are stranded at ports and more than 100 families are without a home this Christmas.

Afghan People's Peace Movement marchers 'kidnapped by Taliban'

Activists from the People's Peace Movement disappear after entering Farah province.

Pope in Christmas message urges softening of 'self-centred hearts'

In his Christmas Day message, Pope Francis says a more compassionate mankind can help end suffering.

Allee Willis: Friends theme songwriter dies at 72

Willis also co-wrote hits for Earth, Wind & Fire and is a Songwriters Hall of Fame member.

Japan MP arrested on suspicion of taking casino bribe

The supporter of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is accused of taking $34,000 from a gambling operator.

Kartarpur: Temple of hope between India and Pakistan

Parminder Singh Sandhu wanted to visit Kartarpur temple all his life - but couldn't until now.

In pictures: Christmas around the world

From Sri Lanka to Paris, Christmas services take place after a 2019 scarred by tragedy.

Burkina Faso: Many women killed in jihadist attack

Burkina Faso has declared two days of national mourning after Tuesday's attack on a base and town.

We gave up Christmas to fight measles in Samoa

British doctors and nurses are battling to save children's lives from measles on Christmas Day.

Executing a dictator: Open wounds of Romania's Christmas revolution

A bloody battle played out on the streets of Bucharest in 1989 as Romania's communist dictator fell.

The Christians helping Bethlehem shepherd families give birth safely

An ancient Christian order runs a maternity hospital in Bethlehem for people of all faiths and ethnicities.

Turkish artisans hand-craft bespoke cymbals for drummers

Artisans in Istanbul have been hand-crafting cymbals the same way for more than 600 years.

'I sent my seven-year-old across the border alone'

More parents are sending their children across the US-Mexico border alone to get around asylum rules.

Plane in US sprinkles 100 gallons of holy water

A priest in Louisiana decided it would be quicker than driving to bless his parish

Zoo animals open food-filled Christmas presents

Elephants, monkeys, parrots and lions have been opening food-filled presents.

Chinese woman sues hospital, alleging doctors refused to freeze her eggs

Teresa Xu says a Beijing hospital refused to offer her treatment because she was unmarried.

Koala given water by firefighters amid bushfires

The animal drank from a bottle before running back into an area of unburnt scrub in south Australia.

Uber co-founder Travis Kalanick severs company ties

Ride-hailing firm's co-founder steps down from its board saying he wants to focus on other pursuits.

Russian journalist loses job after asking Putin question

Alisa Yarovskaya had asked the president to help push building a bridge in north-west Siberia.

Russia 'successfully tests' its unplugged internet

Runet will be a net service specific to Russia, cutting citizens off to the wider internet.

India National Population Register: Database agreed amid protests

The register aims to create a comprehensive database of all residents, authorities say.

France strike: Families face Christmas travel misery

Crippling strikes that began nearly three weeks ago continue to hit France's train services hard.

Kentucky horse killings: Police hunt after 20 found shot dead

A rescue group offers a $20,000 reward after animals including foals and pregnant mares are shot dead.

France blocks export of Cimabue masterpiece found in kitchen

Cimabue's 13th Century painting was sold at auction after it was found in an elderly woman's home.

US recalls ambassador to Zambia after gay rights row

The ambassador said he was "horrified" that two men had been sentenced to 15 years in prison.

South Korea-Japan summit sees hope for better relations

South Korea's Moon Jae-in and Japan's Shinzo Abe try to smooth a rough patch in bilateral relations.

Australia: Several injured in Sydney Christmas balloon drop

The event saw hundreds fighting for balloons filled with prizes at a Sydney mall.

Indonesian bus plunges into ravine leaving 25 dead

The bus - carrying 37 passengers - plunged 100 metres down a ravine and landed in a river.

The Rise of Skywalker: Disney cuts Star Wars same-sex kiss in Singapore

The producers cut the scene so the film didn't get a higher age rating, the film regulator says.

US stops sending sniffer dogs to Jordan and Egypt

The move follows the deaths of US-trained dogs due to negligence - one died of heat stroke.

New Zealand volcano: Police call off search for missing pair

Police said their decision "follows extensive shoreline and substantial aerial searches".

China is getting smarter - but at what cost?

How closely tied is tech in cities to government monitoring?

How is Australia tackling climate change?

As the country deals with deadly bushfires, focus is on the government's climate policies.

Kashmir crisis 2019: Between a rock and a hard place

The BBC's M Ilyas Khan looks back at a year in Kashmir, from the Pakistani perspective.

Russia's reluctant teen activist: 'Mum's house arrest changed my life'

Being a teenager isn't easy when you're standing in for your political activist mother.

The US Ship of Miracles that saved 14,000 North Korean refugees

For thousands of refugees in North Korea, the ship was their only chance of survival.

German police find missing boy inside suspect's cupboard

A German teenager who vanished in 2017 is discovered in the home of a child pornography suspect.

Germany: Passengers halt speeding tram after driver passes out

Two men smash into the cabin of the unresponsive driver and halt a speeding tram in Germany.

Tesco Christmas card factory in China denies 'forced labour'

A girl found a handwritten message, claiming to be from Chinese prisoners, in a Christmas card.

Jamal Khashoggi: Saudi court sentences five to death for murder

Five unnamed people are given death sentences for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Eight dead in the Philippines after drinking bad coconut wine

Another 300 people have been taken to hospital after drinking the same batch of lambanog.

Moment a barge carrying fuel sinks in Galapagos Islands

The boat was carrying 600 gallons of diesel when a crane collapsed, causing it to sink.

Australia fires: Firefighter loses own home while saving others

Volunteer firefighter Russell Scholes left his own home to burn while tackling Australian bushfires.

Sonny Bill Williams: Rugby star latest to criticise China over Uighurs

Sonny Bill Williams posted an image, saying it was "sad" when economics was chosen over humanity.

China to cut import tariffs on pork and tech parts

The world's second-largest economy will cut import duties on hundreds of goods from 1 January.

Australia fires: PM rejects 'reckless' calls to limit coal industry

Scott Morrison said Australia would not "engage in reckless and job-destroying" cuts to coal.

Virginia pile-up: More than 50 hurt in US motorway crash

More than 60 vehicles were involved in the crash on a foggy and icy stretch of road in Virginia.

Honduras prison crisis: Inmates killed in fresh violence

At least 16 inmates are killed in fighting between gangs, two days after 18 died in another jail.

Afghanistan: Where the road to peace is harder than war

Continued bloodshed and a disputed election cast a heavy shadow over peace talks.

LGBT rights: The film about gay love shaking up Georgia

Protests from priests and the far-right greet a new film amid a Church scandal over homosexuality.

Films lookahead: 20 movies not to miss in 2020

Top Gun, Wonder Woman, Mulan and Bond are just some of the cinematic treats heading our way.

'Fashion industry's pollution made me cry'

Yael Aflalo on the trip to China that sparked the growth of her California-based Reformation chain.

Isis in Iraq: Militants 'getting stronger again'

The jihadists are managing to regroup - should the West be worried?

Trump impeachment inquiry sung by a Christmas choir

How President Trump's impeachment inquiry unfolded, sung by the Washington International Chorus.

The 'real' Lyudmila from Chernobyl speaks for first time

The 'real' Lyudmila Ignatenko from the HBO/Sky Chernobyl series speaks for the first time about her life during and after the nuclear disaster.

Aceh Christians forced to celebrate Christmas in a tent

Christians in Aceh, Indonesia, had their churches destroyed four years ago by Islamic vigilante groups and the police.

Why so many Japanese children refuse to go to school

Can free schools solve the problem of "futoko", Japan's phenomenon of refusing to attend school?

Trump impeachment: White House withheld Ukraine aid just after Zelensky call

An email shows officials were contacted 90 minutes after Donald Trump and Ukraine's leader spoke.

Syria war: Turkey can't handle new 'refugee wave', says Erdogan

Tens of thousands of Syrians have fled towards Turkey amid attacks on the rebel-held Idlib province.

Darfur conflict: Sudan launches investigation into crimes

A trial could take place outside the country if necessary, the state prosecutor says.

Emanuel Ungaro: French fashion designer Emanuel dies aged 86

Clothes from the designer's fashion house have been seen on everyone from Jackie Kennedy to Katy Perry.

France strike: Trains for children back on after outcry

Some 5,000 children are expected to use the special service, which enables minors to travel alone.

Starliner spacecraft returns early after failed mission

Boeing's Starliner spacecraft has returned early after a timing error meant it failed to dock with the International Space Station.

Australia fires: 'Not much left' of town ravaged by bushfire

Residents are not yet allowed to return to Balmoral amid ongoing safety concerns over bushfires.

Marcial Maciel: Mexican founder Legionaries of Christ 'abused 60 minors'

The Roman Catholic group publishes its report into Marcial Maciel and the Legionaries of Christ.

Christmas card 'had message from China prisoner'

It comes after a girl reportedly found a hand-written message from Chinese prisoners in a box of Christmas cards.

Draw nears for El Gordo, world's richest lottery

A total of €2.38bn will be handed out at the Spanish lottery El Gordo - which means "the fat one".

Australia fires: 'The devastation is absolute'

The BBC's Shaimaa Khalil visits Balmoral in northwest Sydney, where residents have been battling fires.

India's Modi defends protest-hit citizenship bill

Prime Minister Modi accuses opposition parties of "spreading lies" about the controversial bill.

Australia fires: PM Morrison apologises for taking holiday during crisis

Australia's prime minister apologised after taking a holiday in Hawaii while wildfires raged at home.

Afghanistan presidential election: Ghani set for second term after initial results

Initial results give the incumbent a narrow majority - but the opposition is expected to appeal.

Notre-Dame Cathedral to miss first Christmas Mass in two centuries

The Paris cathedral will miss its first Christmas Mass in more than 200 years as repairs continue.

France pension protests: Macron calls on strikers not to ruin Christmas

France's president urges striking transport unions to call a truce "out of respect for families".

Take a look behind the 'small doors to imaginary spaces' within bookshelves

Artists share the inspiration behind the crafty creation of miniature scenery on their bookcases.

Are US hunters becoming an endangered species?

Fewer Americans hunt now, partly due to growing urbanisation, leading some advocates to fear it's dying out.

The year in protests: From Chile to Lebanon, what happened next?

Every continent including Antarctica saw demos this year, with many likely to spill over into 2020.

Cuba names Manuel Marrero Cruz as first prime minister since 1976

Tourism minister Manuel Marrero Cruz is Cuba's first prime minister since Fidel Castro in 1976.

Quilombo cuisine: Rescuing the ancient cuisine of African slaves

The Quilombo diet is organic, gluten-free and practically lactose-free. It has its roots in African traditions and uses fresh ingredients.

'The closest thing on Earth to interplanetary travel'

Justin Rowlatt lands in a dazzling white and blue world to join scientists checking up on Antarctic ice.

The most read BBC News stories of the last decade

From the 2011 riots to the last general election, we look back at the website's most popular pages.

The studios teaching Trans women how to be more feminine

Nicole Thornbur goes to specialist studios in Manchester which teach Trans women how to be more feminine.

The teenage activists taking after Greta Thunberg

These three teenagers are passionate about issues they see around them, and are training to be activists at The Advocacy Academy in London.

Australia fires: Catastrophic warnings in place across New South Wales

New South Wales Fire Service told some residents to take shelter because it was too late to leave.

Australia fire evacuees use car park as pet shelter

Evacuating residents and their pets have found safety and support in a store's car park.

Trump: 'Space is the world's newest war-fighting domain'

US President Donald Trump has officially funded a Pentagon force focused on warfare in space.

Australia fires: Death toll rises as fires sweep across three states

Firefighters describe Saturday as “an awful day” as catastrophic conditions fuelled major bushfires.

Footballer diagnosed with heart condition

Ajax defender Daley Blind is diagnosed with "heart muscle inflammation" after suffering from dizziness during the game against Valencia on 10 December.

Junaid Hafeez: Academic sentenced to death for blasphemy in Pakistan

Junaid Hafeez was convicted of insulting the Prophet Mohammed on social media.

Mali conflict: Macron says 33 'terrorists' killed by French troops

French President Emmanuel Macron announces details of the operation during a visit to Ivory Coast.

New Zealand: 56,000 guns handed over during amnesty

Semi-automatic weapons were banned after the Christchurch shootings where 51 people were killed.

The man who helped make ex-KGB officer Vladimir Putin a president

Top Russian official Valentin Yumashev tells the BBC how the former KGB officer was selected.

My Anna Delvey story: Strange encounters with a fake heiress

DJ Elle Dee shares her story of meeting con woman Anna Delvey on the New York party scene.

Pro-Indian 'fake websites targeted decision makers in Europe'

Fake sites and groups lobbying for India influenced decision makers in Europe, researchers say.

Mama Cax, model and advocate for inclusivity in fashion, dies aged 30

The Haitian-American model was an advocate for women of colour and disabled women in fashion.

'No cheers for George Weah' this Christmas

The financial crisis Liberia has been worsening since ex-footballer George Weah became president two years ago, writes Jonathan Paye-Layleh.

Honduras prison crisis: 18 inmates killed in gang violence

This week the government declared a state of emergency throughout the country's prison system.

Australia fires: Travel warnings issued over 'catastrophic' blazes

Firefighters tackle "catastrophic" blazes in New South Wales as residents are urged to stay at home.

Trump officially launches US military 'Space Force'

Mr Trump described space as "the world's newest war-fighting domain" as he signed off the funding.

Nord Stream 2: Trump approves sanctions on Russia gas pipeline

The Trump administration fears the Nord Stream 2 project will increase Russia's influence in Europe.

How to cope with an eating disorder at Christmas

New advice is released to help those living with eating disorders over the festive season.

Why is India passing more death sentences?

India is to hang four men for the 2012 Delhi gang rape - but globally there are now fewer executions.

Why China could be football's biggest headache

How one post from Arsenal's Mesut Ozil led to Chinese TV pulling the club's Manchester City match.

Son of Russian spies feels "relief" to be Canadian

Alexander Vavilov, whose parents were Russian spies, spoke out after a court ruled he is Canadian.

Reunited siblings team up for family game show

A DNA test brought the Wheeler siblings back together after almost 50 years apart.

Child prodigies: How geniuses navigate the uncertain journey to adulthood

Child prodigies are lauded for their gifts, but the road to adulthood can be harder than it seems.

Uber promises changes to avoid Germany ban

The ride-sharing app could be banned in Germany if it does not make changes to its processes.

US woman charged over Harry Dunn crash death

The decision over Anne Sacoolas comes after a file of evidence was handed to the CPS last month.

Netherlands climate change: Court orders bigger cuts in emissions

The top court upholds a ruling requiring 1990 levels to be cut by at least 25% by the end of 2020.

Facial recognition fails on race, suggests government study

The US government report looked at nearly 200 facial recognition algorithms from a range of companies.

Boeing launches Starliner capsule to ISS for Nasa

The test flight has a dummy on board but, if successful, astronauts are due to start using the craft from 2020.

Belgian Pandur APCs need shorter drivers after upgrade

A reduction in the size of the Pandur armoured vehicle means maximum crew height is now 1.70m.

France Télécom suicides: Three former bosses jailed

The three are found guilty of "institutional moral harassment" that saw staff deaths in the 2000s.

Inside the US invasion of Panama

Thirty years ago, US soldiers descended on Panama, using rock music and weapons to unseat its ruler.

Claudine Auger: French actress known for James Bond role dies aged 78

She is best known to international audiences for starring as Domino alongside Sean Connery.

FSB shooting: 'Loner' Russian gunman named by police

An unemployed gun club member opened fire at the Russian FSB security HQ in Moscow, police say.

Trump impeachment: President demands immediate Senate trial

The president is almost certain to be acquitted in the Senate and Democrats have delayed the start.

Democratic debate: Warren and Buttigieg clash over 'wine cave' fundraiser

Elizabeth Warren criticises presidential rival Pete Buttigieg over how he's funding his campaign.

Australian bushfire anger explained

The BBC's Ros Atkins explains Australia's bushfire crisis and why people are so angry.

Miss America 2020: Biochemist wins crown after on-stage experiment

Camille Schrier, who wowed judges with a science experiment, said she aims to "break stereotypes".

Boeing prepares to launch astronaut capsule for Nasa

If the Starliner vehicle's demonstration flight goes well, crew could start using it next year.

Poles raise money to buy new lorry for stranded Iranian

Fardin Kazemi was stranded in central Poland, after his lorry broke down and couldn't be repaired.

Macau: China's other 'one country, two systems' region

Macau, known for its casinos, was also returned to China. It has taken a very different path from Hong Kong.

Trump impeachment and a US state divided

In a country of more than 300 million, these three people tell us much about how polarised the US is right now.

Moqtada al-Sadr: The 'firebrand' cleric who could calm Iraq

Radical, firebrand, maverick, mercurial - but Moqtada al-Sadr could hold the key to calm in Iraq.

Questions over Uzbekistan's new era of 'openness'

Amid the first parliamentary elections under a new president, there are doubts reforms are genuine.

Did Ethiopia plant four billion trees this year?

The Ethiopian government set a target of planting four billion trees in three months this year. Did they succeed?

New Zealand destroying military-style guns after ban

It will be illegal to possess rifles and military-style guns after 21 December in New Zealand.

How Beitar Jerusalem's football club owner took on racism and won

For decades Israel's Beitar Jerusalem football club was known for violence and racism among some of its fans. So how did the new owner wipe out racism?

Japan's workplaces rethink 'drinking with the boss'

In Japan, fears of harassment claims mean some bosses are hesitant to organise after-work drinks.

BBC to hold India Sportswoman of the Year contest

The winner of the award, which honours India's finest sportswomen, will be announced next March.

Putin defends rebel leaders in eastern Ukraine

The Russian leader says Ukraine should negotiate directly with the Russian-backed separatists.

Woman arrested after baby rescued from bin in Greece

A local woman found the baby after hearing crying deep inside a public rubbish chute.

US government lists fictional nation Wakanda as trade partner

Officials say it was an error to add the fictional nation from Black Panther to the list.

Australia heat: 'It's so hot, I feel like dying'

Sydney residents describe what it's like being in the grip of a record-breaking heatwave.

Timelapse shows New York City hit by a snow squall

A timelapse shows how the city was hit by a blast of sudden heavy snowfall and wind on Wednesday night.

Airbnb is not an estate agent, EU court rules

Airbnb will not need an estate agent licence to operate as it is an "information society service".

El Clásico: Catalan protests at Barcelona v Real Madrid match

Why protesters and police clashed outside one of Europe's most watched football games, "El Clásico".

Senegal's plastic recycling 'monster' campaigns for a cleaner country

Modou Fall had to get creative to grab people thinking more about plastic waste in Senegal.

Trump impeachment: Pelosi warns Democrats not to celebrate

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi confirms Trump is impeached - and warns Democrats not to celebrate.

Trump reacts to news he's been impeached

Donald Trump was at a rally in Michigan at the time members of Congress voted to impeach him.

Trump impeachment: Key moments from debate

Republicans and Democrats spent hours exchanging verbal blows before voting to impeach President Trump.

India police ban protests against citizenship law

They say the ban has been enforced to maintain peace, but protest are expected to continue.

Philippine family clan members found guilty of 'Maguindanao massacre'

It has been called the trial of the decade - and a test of the Philippines' justice system.

EU court to rule on jailed Catalan leader's rights

Oriol Junqueras was elected to the European Parliament, but Spain jailed him for "sedition".

Clinton v Trump - no sex and less suspense

The BBC's Nick Bryant explains how this impeachment differs to the 1998 hearings which gripped the US.

African swine fever: Fears rise as virus spreads to Indonesia

An outbreak of the deadly virus that has decimated pig herds in China has been detected in Indonesia.

Trump is impeached, becoming third US president to face Senate trial

After a day of bitter debates, the US president is impeached, sending him to a trial in the Senate.

Is the Netherlands becoming a narco-state?

The murder of a prominent lawyer ended a common misconception: that drug cartels only kill their own.

The Sudanese brides who undergo genital mutilation for love

Women who want to pretend to be virgins before their weddings are opting for "re-circumcision" in Sudan.

Why India shuts down the internet more than any other democracy

India shut down the internet 93 times this year, and a blackout in Kashmir is the world's longest.

How the scramble for sand is destroying the Mekong

The Mekong river is being damaged by sand extraction, adding to calls for limits on sand usage.

Olympic Manifesto: Speech that launched the modern Games to go on sale

The original Olympic Game Manifesto, written in 1892, is expected to fetch up to $1m (£765,000).

Adam Driver leaves interview 'because he can't stand listening to himself'

The Marriage Story actor reportedly couldn't bear to listen to a clip of his own performance.

Trump impeachment: US House ready for historic vote

Members of the House of Representatives will vote on two impeachment charges on Wednesday.

Reinhard Bonnke: The man who changed the face of Christianity in Africa

Reinhard Bonnke, who died aged 79, is the father of modern-day crusade preaching in Africa.

People with epilepsy targeted in Twitter attack

Trolls posted strobing Gifs and videos on Twitter with the Epilepsy Foundation's handle and hashtag.

Panama jail violence: 13 killed in AK-47 gang shoot-out

The inmates had smuggled three assault rifles, four pistols and a revolver into the prison.

$5bn fund unveiled for climate-friendly shipping

Ship owners announce plans for a $5bn fund to design zero-emissions vessels.

Hernan Cortes: Conquistador anchors found off Mexico Gulf Coast

They may have belonged to fleet led by Hernán Cortés, who conquered the Aztec empire.

Giulio Regeni: Egypt tried to cover up student murder, Italy says

Prosecutors say student Giulio Regeni was ensnared in a "spider's web" before his death in 2016.

German homeless man who wanted jail gets life for attack on cyclist

A German court says the unemployed man deliberately hit a cyclist with his car to go to prison.

Europe's Cheops telescope launches to study far-off worlds

The Cheops space mission will get beyond just counting planets to start describing their properties.

Journalist wins Japan civil rape case

Shiori Ito was awarded 3.3m yen ($30,000) in damages.

Trump could be impeached - how did we get here?

Ahead of the US House of Representatives vote on impeachment, here are some key moments from the inquiry.

Bronze Age royal tombs unearthed in Greece

A team of US archaeologists finds gold jewellery and artefacts dating back more than 3,000 years.

Every McDonald's in Peru shuts to mourn dead workers

The fast food giant shut every restaurant in the country after two staff were electrocuted at work.

Shiori Ito: Japanese journalist awarded $30,000 in damages in rape case

Shiori Ito accuses a prominent television journalist of raping her while she was unconscious.

US acting ambassador to Ukraine, Bill Taylor, to step down

Acting ambassador Bill Taylor's testimony helped build the case for impeaching President Trump.

Australia endures hottest day on record

The continent records its highest national average temperature, worsening the bushfire threat.

How Cuba’s digital revolutionaries are fighting for change

A year after Cuba’s government allowed 3G on the island, we follow three activists using the internet to drive rapid change.

How much should bosses be paid?

Do stock options encourage good performance or are they just another way to boost executive pay?

Vienna State Opera: Top ballet academy 'encouraged pupils to smoke'

Dancers at Vienna State Opera's academy were encouraged to smoke to stay slim, a report finds.

Refugee camps: Pregnant and living in a wet tent

As charity Médecins Sans Frontières warns of a health emergency in refugee camps, one expectant mother living in Lesbos spoke to BBC of her fears.

Andrew Garrido taught himself piano on a paper keyboard

Pianist and musician Andrew Garrido has played concert venues across Europe, but he only started playing the piano ten years ago when he made his own paper keyboard to practise on.

Giant prehistoric caiman had extra hip bone to carry its weight

Purussaurus mirandai could grow to 10m in length and was able to move on land, scientists believe.

Bionic cat Vito becomes 'superstar' with his prosthetic legs

The six-year-old shows off his new prosthetic hind legs following a serious road accident in Italy.

Samsung chairman Lee Sang-hoon jailed for union sabotage

Lee Sang-hoon is sentenced to 18 months in prison for undermining legitimate union activities.

Pope scraps pontifical secrecy rule over sex abuse

Pope Francis makes sweeping changes to the way the Roman Catholic Church deals with sex abuse cases.

Moscow rail's accidental 'new year gift' to commuters

The company says the lucky riders of the new railway can keep the credit as a "new year" gift.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker in world premiere

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is the final film in the latest trilogy, completing the Skywalker saga.

Citizenship Amendment Act: 'A policeman just shot me'

The BBC speaks to a man who says Indian police shot him as he was passing by a protest.

Charlize Theron 'not ashamed' to talk about her mum killing her dad

The actress says she's "not ashamed" to discuss the violence she experienced in her family.

Sackler family 'transferred $10bn out of Purdue'

The family took far more money out of the OxyContin-producer after it admitted misleading marketing.

Pervez Musharraf: Pakistan ex-leader sentenced to death for treason

Gen Pervez Musharraf is accused of high treason in a long-running trial held in absentia.

White Island: NZ Police complete identification of volcano victims

The names and nationalities of 17 people have been released, including two who remain missing.

Chinese mines: At least 14 dead in latest disaster

Some 37 miners have died since October, as Chinese mines struggle with poor safety standards.

All I Want For Christmas is You: Mariah classic finally tops US chart

All I Want For Christmas is You, first released in 1994, tops the Billboard Hot 100 Chart at last.

Citizenship Amendment Act: Delhi police in 'shooting' row as protests spread

At least three people thought they were shot - but police said broken tear gas canisters were to blame.

The man who helped make ex-KGB officer Vladimir Putin a president

Top Russian official Valentin Yumashev tells the BBC how the former KGB officer was selected.

Letter from Africa: How talk of witches stirs emotions in Nigeria

A section of the Nigerian criminal code forbids witchcraft, and it is punishable by a jail term.

A bumpy ride for Democrat backing impeachment

Some politicians are facing anger from their constituents over the impeachment of Trump.

Sanna Marin: Estonia apologises after minister mocks Finland PM

Far-right interior minister Mart Helme described Finland's PM Sanna Marin as "a sales girl".

Meet Hong Kong's grannies forced to collect cardboard

Granny Orchid, 63, collects boxes on the streets of Hong Kong seven days a week, to earn extra cash.

The hotel room that's deliberately hard to stay in

Artist Christopher Samuel wants visitors to get a taste of what disabled people have to put up with.

The fight to stop Venice from flooding

A system of floodgates for Italy's lagoon city has been delayed for years and mired in corruption.

Lesbos migrant camp children 'say they want to die'

An increasing number of children are self-harming and attempting suicide in a Greek migrant camp.

Little Women: Cast talk friendship and the Golden Globes

The cast discuss women and the Golden Globe nominees as well as the new film.

Mesut Ozil: Arsenal midfielder 'deceived by fake news', says China

China invites Arsenal's Mesut Ozil to visit the country, saying his criticism of the treatment of Uighur Muslims there was "influenced by untruthful remarks".

Mexico violence: 12 police killed in one week in Guanajuato

One of those killed was a decorated female officer whose body was later found dismembered.

Grave of top Nazi Reinhard Heydrich opened in Berlin

It is not clear who opened the SS officer's unmarked grave - police say no remains were taken.

Trump impeachment: Schumer calls for White House witnesses at trial

The call from the minority leader in the US Senate comes days before a vote to impeach Donald Trump.

Rayo Vallecano v Albacete abandoned as fans call Roman Zozulya a Nazi

A Spanish second division match is abandoned as Rayo Vallecano fans chant that Albacete forward Roman Zozulya is a Nazi.

Babe Ruth: Baseball player's landmark home run bat fetches $1m

The bat the baseball legend used in 1929 for his 500th home run was hidden in a friend's cupboard.

Barack Obama: Women are indisputably better than men

The ex-president said most of the world's problems came from old people, mostly men, holding onto power.

Australia bushfires: 'Mega blaze' destroys homes ahead of heatwave

The bushfire near Sydney prompts fresh warnings, as the nation braces for searing temperatures.

Hiroshima buildings that survived atomic bomb to be demolished

The city says the buildings, built in 1913, are unsafe - but some locals but want them preserved.

Citizenship Amendment Act: Protests erupt across India over citizenship law

The law lets migrants fleeing religious persecution claim citizenship - but not if they are Muslim.

Hallmark apologizes for pulling same-sex ads

The company withdrew the adverts under pressure from conservatives, then reversed its decision.

US envoy Stephen Biegun tells North Korea: 'Let's get this done'

The US envoy calls on North Korea to resume nuclear talks - as Pyongyang's self-imposed deadline looms.

PewDiePie to take break from YouTube as 'feeling very tired'

The Swedish star, 29, has been involved in accusations of racism and anti-Semitism in recent years.

Lebanon crisis: Dozens wounded in second night of clashes in Beirut

Riot police use tear gas and water cannon as anti-government protests continue in Lebanon.

McDonald's sacks Australian franchisee over race row video

A video which showed the man berating his Aboriginal neighbour has caused outrage in Australia.

Anak Krakatau: Giant blocks of rock litter ocean floor

Landslide debris from the collapsed Anak Krakatau volcano is imaged on the seabed for the first time.

Poorest countries facing both obesity and malnutrition

Food systems are behind poor growth and over-eating in many low-income countries, a report says.

My Anna Delvey story: Strange encounters with a fake heiress

DJ Elle Dee shares her story of meeting con woman Anna Delvey on the New York party scene.

How a university dropout built a toy empire

Nick Mowbray went from sleeping on the factory floor to leading a multi-million dollar toy firm.

Responsible Child: Can a 10-year-old be a cold-blooded murderer?

A new BBC drama tells the story of a 12-year-old boy on trial for murder, who was tried as an adult.

Tiffany Haddish's Black Mitzvah and her journey of Jewish discovery

The Eritrean-American comedian hopes the discovery of her Jewish identity can inspire others.

'If President Putin can't help me, who can?'

How ordinary Russian have taken to appealing directly to Vladimir Putin to solve their problems.

Imported for my body: The African women trafficked to India for sex

BBC Africa Eye uncovered an illegal network that lures women to India from Africa for sex work.

New Zealand volcano: Minute's silence to mark one week after eruption

A minute's silence will be observed as search teams are still trying to retrieve two missing bodies.

Citizenship Amendment Act: Riots erupt in Delhi

The law lets migrants fleeing religious persecution claim citizenship - but not if they are Muslim.

Trump impeachment: President ‘a clear and present danger to democracy’

Top Democrats urge Republicans to cross party lines and side with them in impeaching Donald Trump.

Botswana cancels hunters' licences for killing elephant

The professional hunters had shot dead a collared elephant in Botswana, angering conservationists.

Australia bushfires: Footage shows fire 'crowning' across treetops

The phenomenon was filmed by firefighters in Wollemi National Park, New South Wales.

Climate change: Longest talks end with compromise deal

Exhausted delegates finally reach agreement on the key question of ambition with other tricky issues postponed.

UFC 245: Kamaru Usman stops Colby Covington in final round of thriller

Welterweight champion Kamaru Usman retains his title by defeating challenge of Colby Covington in the final round at UFC 245 in Las Vegas.

Mesut Ozil: Arsenal-Manchester City game removed from schedules by China state TV

China's state broadcaster CCTV has removed Sunday's Arsenal-Manchester City game from its schedule after comments made by Gunners midfielder Mesut Ozil, state media has reported.

Anna Karina: French New Wave cinema legend dies aged 79

Karina, a Danish-French actress, was the muse of director Jean-Luc Godard.

Iran 'foils second cyber-attack in a week'

The hack targeted government computer systems, the country's telecommunications minister says.

Greta Thunberg apologises for 'put leaders against the wall' comment

The teenage climate activist says the phrase has a different meaning in her first language, Swedish.

New Zealand volcano: Death toll rises to 16 as two remain missing

A person who was being treated in hospital in Australia dies, as two bodies remain missing.

Lebanon crisis: Dozens hurt as police and protesters clash in Beirut

Riot police fire tear gas and rubber bullets as anti-government protests continue in Lebanon.

How Mexicans saved a dying US town

Guymon, Oklahoma, was on its way to becoming a ghost town. Then Mexican immigrants arrived 20 years ago.

How Africa will be affected by climate change

The African continent is more vulnerable than any other region to the world's changing weather patterns.

Women rise up on Baghdad's walls

Murals across the Iraqi capital show how women are taking a rare prominent role in protests.

Stockton's universal basic income scheme

Stockton in California is providing poor residents with a universal basic income, but could it work nationally?

How millennials are changing the perfume business

Perfumers describe how they're adapting to calls for sustainable contents and gender-neutral smells.

Albania earthquake: Arrests over deaths in collapsed buildings

Nine people are arrested on suspicion of murder and abuse of power after last month's deadly tremor.

Dare to Dream: The organisation getting women into aviation

Captain Phatsima founded Dare to Dream, an organisation trying to get women into aviation.

Matteo Salvini: 'Sardines' pack in for Rome protest

Protesters rally against the right-wing League party of Matteo Salvini, using sardines as their symbol.

UN climate talks hit rough waters

UN climate talks in Madrid appear to be in trouble as they head deep into extra time.

Omar al-Bashir: Sudan ex-leader sentenced for corruption

Bashir has been sentenced to two years for corruption - but cannot be jailed because of his age.

ICYMI: Pandas, snakes and skiing Santas

Some of the stories you may have missed this week.

Citizenship Amendment Bill: India's West Bengal hit by protests

The UK, US and Canada have warned people visiting India's north-east to "exercise caution".

Presidents Cup: Patrick Reed's caddie involved in altercation withn fan

Patrick Reed's caddie is thrown out of the Presidents Cup in Melbourne after he "shoved" a fan who had been directing abuse at his player.

N Korea conducts 'crucial test' - state media

Few details about the test have been released, but it is the second at the same site in less than a week.

Australia heatwave: Next week could see hottest day on record

Fire warnings are in place for many areas including Perth, where temperatures are set to remain high.

Myanmar Rohingya: Aung San Suu Kyi cuts a haunted figure in court

The once-persecuted Nobel peace laureate has been defending Myanmar against genocide allegations.

Vladimir Putin: 20 years in 20 photos

We look at 20 photographs of the former KGB agent, who became Russia's president in 1999.

Can kitchen gardens combat climate change?

Growing your own fruit and veg is already eco-friendly, but it could also help fight climate change.

Why women are fighting back against hair oppression

New legalisation to protect natural hair has brought national attention to this form of discrimination.

Chalk Back: Kenyan women fight back against street harassment

Using chalk and markers, women and girls in Nairobi document their experiences of street harassment.

Why can't this doctor work in the UK?

An refugee doctor would love to work in the UK, and the NHS would love to have him - but there's a hitch.

The secrets of 'food porn' viral videos

Is the fashion for filming calorie-saturated food videos encouraging unhealthy eating?

New Zealand volcano: Search resumes for two remaining bodies

The search operation resumes near White Island volcano after one body was spotted in the water.

Africa’s 'condom king' wants no more HIV infections

Kenyan Stanley Ngara gives out free condoms in his bid to encourage safe sex and lower HIV rates.

Shah Rukh Khan talks success and having two left feet

The King of Bollywood sat down with Talking Movies’ Tom Brook in front of a live audience.

UN accuses Chile of serious human rights abuses

Investigators say they have verified four cases of unlawful deaths involving state agents.

Three-digit suicide prevention hotline - 988 - given green light in US

When operational, the 988 number will replace a 12-digit hotline, making it easier to get help.

Algeria election: Ex-PM to replace Bouteflika after boycotted poll

Abdelmadjid Tebboune took 58% of the vote in a poll marred by protests and a boycott.

Taylor Swift blasts 'toxic male privilege' during Woman Of The Decade speech

The star dispenses with platitudes as she accepts Billboard's woman of the decade award.

Qantas picks Airbus over Boeing for longest flights

The move marks a fresh blow to rival Boeing as it deals with the fallout from its grounded 737 Max jets.

Rape in India: How Rahul Gandhi and PM Modi both made it a political issue

Rahul Gandhi is now under attack, but PM Modi is also guilty of invoking rape to win elections.

Nigerian spent eight years awaiting trial before being freed

Babagana Aliyu spent eight years in prison without being convicted of a crime.

General election 2019: World leaders react to Johnson victory

Boris Johnson and the Conservatives have won big - here's how world leaders have responded so far.

'Penis fish' wash up on a beach in California

Thousands of the creature, also known as fat innkeeper worms, appeared on Drakes Beach.

EU carbon neutrality: Leaders agree 2050 target without Poland

The bloc sets a target for carbon neutrality but Poland, which relies heavily on coal, is exempted.

The Clash: How London Calling still inspires 40 years on

How The Clash’s iconic third album London Calling continues to inspire 40 years after its release.

Unesco heritage: Traditional Thai massage added to 'cultural heritage' list

Nuad Thai is now part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, according to Unesco.

New Zealand volcano: Divers deployed to find last two missing bodies

Two bodies are missing as six are airlifted off the island - despite the risk of another eruption.

New Kentucky governor restores voting rights to ex-felons

The new Democratic governor will return the vote to as many as 140,000 non-violent former felons.

Andrew Scheer: Canadian Conservative leader resigns

Andrew Scheer is stepping down two months after his party's disappointing election loss.

The place where dead eagles are given a new life

Colorado's National Eagle Repository is the only one of its kind in the world.

Spain in drive to get women into special forces

More women are needed to help combat terrorism and insurgents, Spain's defence minister says.

Pengsoo: The rude giant penguin that S Korea fell in love with

He was meant to be a children's character, but he's now gained a huge fan base amongst millennials.

Lebanon electricity crisis: Stealing power to survive

Protesters in Lebanon say its electricity crisis reflects everything that is wrong with the country.

Why Australia's PM is facing climate anger amid bushfires

As vast areas burn, Scott Morrison is being accused of playing down the impact of climate change.

Myanmar: Rohingya refugee recalls 'horrific' mass killings

Rohingya refugee Hasina Begun says Myanmar troops set her village alight and opened fire on her people.

Las Tesis feminist protest song of Chile goes global

The song "The rapist is you" was created by the Chilean feminist collective Las Tesis.

Making art from rubbish

Andriy Pilat makes art from discarded plastic rubbish in the Ukrainian city of Chernivtsi.

Pakistan protest: Patients die as lawyers ransack Lahore hospital

Three patients died when lawyers attacked a cardiac hospital in Lahore in a dispute with doctors.

Berlin murder: Russia expels German diplomats amid dispute

The tit-for-tat move follows Germany's expulsion of Russians over the death of a Chechen in Berlin.

Pakistan lawyers in violent hospital protest in Lahore

A number of patients are believed to have died after a protest by lawyers at a Lahore hospital turned violent.

Argentina's Mario Sandoval: France to deport ex-policeman in torture case

Mario Sandoval, now a Sorbonne academic, is accused of atrocities during Argentina's military rule.

Citizenship Amendment Bill: India calls in army to Assam and Tripura states

Protesters in the north-east claim they will be "overrun" with Hindu migrants from Bangladesh.

Ex-Olympian shares battle with alcoholism

Kenya's Wilfred Bungei, who won Olympic 800m gold in Beijing, shares his story of battling alcoholism in a bid to "save someone".

'There's nothing like it' - Meet Saudi Arabia's first certified female boxing coach

Rasha Al Khamis speaks to BBC Sport about becoming Saudi Arabia's first certified female boxing coach.

Harvey Weinstein 'reaches tentative $25m deal with accusers'

The reported deal comes ahead of the film mogul's separate rape and sexual assault trial next month.

Boeing: US regulator admits 'mistake' over aircraft crashes

Safety regulator allowed the aircraft to continue flying despite its own analysis flagging warnings.

Algeria elections under threat from a boycott

Citizens in countrywide protests have long called for a new kind of politics, not just a new president.

Flying around NZ volcano spewing toxic gas

The BBC's Shaimaa Khalil flies close to White Island, while it continues to spew toxic gas.

Sulawesi art: Animal painting found in cave is 44,000 years old

Experts say the art, found in an Indonesian cave, could be the world's oldest recorded story.

A 'game changer' for cardboard box waste?

A factory in France is trialling a more efficient way of packaging orders, Emma Simpson reports.

EU leaders to consider climate neutrality pledge

The new head of the European Commission has proposed big change, but the decision will lie with EU leaders.

White Island volcano: NZ police consider high-speed mission to get bodies

But this option could mean that crucial evidence is lost, potentially rendering bodies unidentifiable.

Climate change: Anger as protestors barred from UN talks

Around 200 environmental campaigners are barred from climate talks after Greta Thunberg speaks.

What are beauty pageants really like for black women?

Black women hold four major pageant titles, but black pageant winners say there's more to the story.

‘How texts to my dead brother brought us together’

A Minneapolis woman started messaging her brother's old phone but she didn't expect what happened next.

Volcano tourism in the spotlight after New Zealand eruption

Huge numbers of tourists risk scaling active volcanoes every year.

Are India's claims about minorities in other countries true?

Are the Indian government's claims about non-Muslim groups in neighbouring states correct?

Cameroon conflict: 'I go to a secret school'

Families fleeing conflict in Cameroon English-speaking regions are having a hard time educating their children.

How millennials are changing the perfume business

Perfumers describe how they're adapting to calls for sustainable contents and gender-neutral smells.

Joe Biden: Democratic presidential frontrunner denies one-term pledge

US media had reported that Mr Biden, 77, suggested to his aides he would only serve a single term.

France strike: PM Édouard Philippe outlines 'fairer' pension plan

Prime Minister Édouard Philippe outlines controversial plans he says will create a fairer system.

YouTube bans 'malicious insults and veiled threats'

Videos containing insults based on race and sexual orientation will be removed, YouTube says.

Jersey City shootings: Sounds of gunfire fill streets

At least six people have died in a series of gun battles in Jersey City, New Jersey.

Buyer returns Grease jacket to Olivia Newton-John after auction

He gives the leather jacket back to Olivia Newton-John after buying it from her for $243,000.

Saudi Arabia oil attacks: UN 'unable to confirm Iranian involvement'

Saudi Arabia says Iran was involved in September's drone and missile strikes - something it denies.

Ed Sheeran named 'artist of the decade'

The singer has amassed a combined run of 12 number one singles and albums between 2010 and 2019.

Why the Herero people's special dress is worn with pride in Namibia

Herero people commemorate their battle with their German colonial rulers with a ceremonial dress.

Greta Thunberg accuses world leaders of 'creative PR' at climate summit

The teenage activist's speech came after Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro called her a "brat".

Myanmar Rohingya: Suu Kyi rejects genocide claims in UN court

Myanmar's leader says there is no proof its army had "genocidal intent" against Rohingya Muslims.

Mexico's naked Zapata painting causes protests

The painting shows the revolutionary hero naked on a horse, wearing high heels and a pink hat.

Citizenship Amendment Bill: Protests grow as India debates 'anti-Muslim' law

India's Citizenship Amendment Bill offers amnesty to non-Muslim illegal immigrants from three countries.

Greta Thunberg : 'Almost nothing is being done'

Teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg has addressed the COP25 summit, criticising politicians and CEOs.

Bougainville referendum: PNG region votes overwhelmingly for independence

The vote was non-binding - but the Papua New Guinea region could now become a sovereign country.

'World's first' fully-electric commercial flight takes off

A fully electric seaplane flight has been hailed by operators as the start of a third "aviation era".

White Island volcano: New volcanic activity hampers recovery efforts

There'd been hopes to bring back the bodies from the island but police says it's too dangerous.

Pensacola attack: US grounds Saudi aviation students after navy base shooting

Flights for 300 aviation students are paused after the shooting at Pensacola left three sailors dead.

Climate change: Major emitters accused of blocking progress at UN talks

Brazil, China, India and Saudi Arabia are criticised as anger grows at a UN climate change meeting.

Myanmar Rohingya: The supporters of Aung San Suu Kyi

Aung San Suu Kyi will defend her country against genocide accusations in court in The Hague.

Why this cattle farmer moves his cows every day

Methane emissions from cattle contribute to climate change - but Will Harris says he has a solution.

'Our parents ran a secret gay porn empire'

Karen and Barry Mason ran a successful gay porn business but tried to hide it from their children.

New Zealand volcano: Can we predict eruptions?

The country's most active volcano has erupted - but how good are scientists at predicting when this might happen?

Algeria's serial protesters: 'Why I give up my weekends to march'

Algerian students put their lives on hold as they call for a poll boycott and complete political change.

WTO chief: 'Months' needed to fix disputes body

The system for resolving world trade disputes grinds to a halt after the US blocks any new WTO judges.

USMCA: Agreement reached on Nafta trade deal replacement

Democrats in Congress agree to approve the new US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

Ice Bucket Challenge inspiration Pete Frates dies at 34

Pete Frates championed the campaign that raised millions for research into his ALS disease.

Myanmar Rohingya: Suu Kyi to defend genocide charge at UN court

The UN's top court is hearing allegations of atrocities committed against the Rohingya people.

Trump impeachment: House Democrats to unveil formal charges

The move is a key step towards a full vote in the US House of Representatives.

Floods and power cuts hit South Africa

Some 700 homes have been swept away, power stations have been flooded and mining has been affected.

St Petersburg bomb: Long jail terms for metro attack

Fifteen people died in the April 2017 attack in the Russian city, many of them students.

Algeria jails two former prime ministers ahead of election

They were accused of abusing authority in a car manufacturing embezzlement scandal.

New Zealand volcano: What we know about those affected

The latest information on the people affected by the deadly eruption on New Zealand's White Island.

George Laurer, co-inventor of the barcode, dies at 94

The US engineer helped to perfect the technology to read barcodes, which revolutionised retail.

Plane spins on runway during emergency landing in Costa Rica

The pilot warned his passengers before he brought the plane down in Costa Rica.

Drugs and guns found on Juice Wrld's jet, police say

Police in Chicago say the rapper suffered a seizure as they questioned his entourage in an airport.

Bangalore: Dummies in police uniforms 'control' city traffic

Officials in India hope drivers will mistake them for real police and be less likely to break rules.

Gunman on run after deadly Czech hospital shooting

At least six people are reported dead after a man opened fire at a hospital in the city of Ostrava.

Seafloor scar of Bikini A-bomb test still visible

Seventy-three years after the first underwater nuclear explosion, scientists return to map the site.

Sydney smoke: Residents 'choking' on intense bushfire pollution

Locals report the "worst day yet" of a haze that has sparked health problems and forced evacuations.

Chilean military plane 'disappears' with 38 aboard

A military plane with 38 on board has disappeared en route to Antarctica, Chilean air force says in a statement

Stockton's universal basic income scheme

Stockton in California is providing poor residents with a universal basic income, but could it work nationally?

New Zealand volcano: Five dead and eight missing with 'no signs of life'

The focus shifts from rescue to recovery as eight feared dead are still on White Island volcano.

Aung San Suu Kyi: How a peace icon ended up at a genocide trial

Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi is defending her country in the International Court of Justice.

On the campaign trail with Joe Biden

The Democrat candidate and former vice-president has been travelling across Iowa to rally support.

Sanna Marin: The rising star set to lead Finland's 5.5 million