Abounding Opportunities

The New York Stock Exchange will delist the three Chinese companies based on claimed military links.

Moscow train carriage helps rehome stray pets

The Tails and Paws train features posters of dozens of animals in need of a new home.

US politics in 2021: What's in store for President-elect Biden?

A new president with an agenda that's already set - and an outgoing president who's not leaving quietly.

Brexit: 'We welcomed the trade deal like a Christmas present'

Europeans in the UK, and British people around Europe, explain what Brexit will mean for them.

India's love affair with classic British motorbikes

BSA, Norton and Royal Enfield are all owned by Indian firms who want to kickstart the brands.

Why 2021 will be turning point for tackling climate change

Next year could be a "make or break" moment in the fight against global warming.

Australia-China row: 'I'm Australian - why do I need to prove my loyalty?'

Many Chinese-Australians fear a "new McCarthyism" as Australia's values are tested by its China row.

Ten African music stars to look out for in 2021

Elaine, Fik Fameica and Omah Lay are among the stars who have impressed BBC Africa's music experts.

MF Doom: Hip-hop star dies aged 49

A number of artists have paid tribute to the artist, real name Daniel Dumile.

Covid-19: China approves Sinopharm vaccine for general use

The Sinopharm vaccine is the first in China to be approved beyond emergency use.

Argentines on abortion legalisation: 'I felt relieved'

Pro-choice and anti-abortion activists give their views on the legalisation of abortion in Argentina.

New Zealand rings in 2021 with fireworks

The country is one of the few where New Year's Eve plans were held as usual.

Covid: Pandemic dampens New Year celebrations around the world

As the virus continues to spread in many countries, governments are set to crack down on revellers.

Giulio Regeni: Italy condemns Egypt for ruling out charges against police

Italian prosecutors had accused four Egyptian officers of the murder of a Cambridge student in 2016.

Bosnia: Hundreds of migrants stuck at fire-gutted camp

About 900 migrants are stranded in the freezing cold after plans to relocate them are blocked.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai ordered back to jail

The 73-year-old is the city's highest profile person charged under a controversial security law.

Tech 2020: Our biggest stories and what happened next

The most read BBC tech story of each month of the year, and how they panned out.

Vaccine and water unseats Mukesh Ambani as Asia's richest person

Nicknamed the lone wolf, China's Zhong Shanshan has unseated India's Mukesh Ambani.

Samuel Little: America's 'most prolific' serial killer dies

Samuel Little is thought to have killed 93 women, with his murders going undetected for decades.

Wang Xiangjun: China's 'Glacier Bro' presumed dead

The Chinese influencer and environmentalist Wang Xiangjun was known for his love of glaciers.

Nashville explosion: Police probe conspiracy theory motive

Police are trying to determine if conspiracy theories motivated the suspect in the Nashville attack.

Deepening divisions: Venezuela's haves and have nots

A relaxation of economic restraints has some benefits - for those with access to US dollars.

Remembering the entertainment and arts figures we lost in 2020

Remembering some of the figures from music, film, TV, radio and literature who died in 2020.

India's most uplifting social media moments in 2020

From a dancing doctor to a street food stall owner - people who gave hope in the pandemic year.

Syria attack: At least 28 killed in ambush on bus

A human rights monitor blamed Islamic State for the attack, saying all those killed were soldiers.

Zhang Zhan: The 'rebellious soul' jailed for filming Wuhan

Citizen journalist Zhang Zhan spoke about why she chose to cover the outbreak before her arrest.

Republican senator to dispute certification of Biden victory

The tactic is expected to change nothing, but will set the stage for what the Biden camp called "antics".

Penn Station: New train hall returns beauty to New York station

The newly-designed hall opens on Thursday after the original landmark was demolished in 1963.

2020 through the lens of a photojournalist

Photojournalist Leah Millis recaps the year with her favourite images from 2020.

Yemen war: Video shows moment Aden airport attacked

Television cameras were positioned for the arrival of the new government when the attack happened.

Four protests that triggered change - and one that didn't

The BBC looks at a selection of history's powerful protests and why only some achieved their goals.

Norway mudslide: Aerial footage shows devastation

At least nine people are injured and houses have been buried in the Norwegian village of Gjerdrum.

Norway landslide: Houses buried in Gjerdrum village near Oslo

Several people are injured and 26 unaccounted for in Gjerdrum, 25km from Oslo, authorities say.

Apple removes app promoting private parties in pandemic

US platform Vybe Together advertised "gatherings every weekend" to its thousands of users.

Argentina abortion: Activists celebrate Senate vote

Crowds from both sides gathered in Buenos Aires to hear the results of the vote.

Coronavirus: Senate wrangles over boosting help for Americans

President Donald Trump's push for an increase in one-off payments to $2,000 stalls in Congress.

Yemen war: Explosions at Aden airport as new government arrives

The explosions reportedly happened as cabinet ministers were getting off a plane from Saudi Arabia.

Croatia earthquake: Strong aftershocks hit after quake kills seven

The new 4.8 and 4.7 magnitude tremors cause further damage after seven people died on Tuesday.

Jonathan Pollard: Israel spy greeted by Netanyahu after flying to Tel Aviv

The American, who was jailed for 30 years for selling US secrets, is welcomed by Israel's PM.

Covid: What do we know about China's coronavirus vaccines?

Sinovac and Sinopharm's jabs are yet to finish final trials, but are already being shipped overseas.

China Covid-19: Nearly 500,000 in Wuhan may have had virus, says study

The study by Chinese officials suggests there were more positive cases in Wuhan than official figures suggest.

Luke Letlow: Newly-elected US lawmaker, 41, dies from Covid

Luke Letlow, 41, was due to be sworn in as a Republican Representative for Louisiana on Sunday.

China jails Hong Kong activists for between seven months and three years

The democracy activists were caught at sea as they tried to flee by speedboat to Taiwan.

Covid: Sydney announces new restrictions ahead of New Year

The Australian city is battling a worsening outbreak after months of next to no cases.

North Korea defectors: Why it's getting harder to escape

Hundreds of defectors make the perilous journey every year, and now it's become even more arduous.

Tamir Rice killing: US closes investigation into 2014 shooting

The death of the 12-year-old boy, who had been holding a toy gun, led to widespread protests.

Iraqi interpreters 'stalked by death squads' for helping the British

Ali and Ahmed helped British forces but now they live in fear of being killed by death squads.

Covid-19: Biden says Trump vaccine roll-out is 'falling behind'

The US president-elect calls for vaccinations to be ramped up as he warns of a "tough period" ahead.

2020 and me: 'We need to learn life lessons from this'

Mahnaz Rehman lost her husband during lockdown in Karachi, Pakistan.

Belarus protests: The demonstrators speaking out in new and creative ways

Faced by a government crackdown, demonstrations over the disputed August election have been forced to evolve.

Quarantine meals: The 2020 food trend no-one predicted

Across the world, people in quarantine facilities were treated to some weird and wonderful combinations.

Iraqi interpreters 'stalked by death squads' for helping the British

Ali and Ahmed helped British forces but now they live in fear of being killed by death squads.

Fashion lookahead: Eight major 2021 looks from tie-dye to pastels

The patterns, prints, materials and accessories we're likely to be wearing this year.

What my grandfather's life taught me about China and America

Vincent Ni reflects on the long life of his grandfather and a crucial choice he made as a young man.

Notable African deaths of 2020: From jazz legends to football heroes

A look back at some of the iconic figures on the African continent who we said farewell to this year.

Bell stolen by Nazis to be returned to Poland

A Polish church pastor has spent two years looking for the bell, which dates back to 1555.

The designer who was 'one step ahead of tomorrow'

The legendary French fashion designer will be remembered for his futuristic designs and huge range.

Pierre Cardin: The French fashion designer 'one step ahead of tomorrow'

The French designer, who's died aged 98, challenged the status quo and influenced decades of fashion.

Pierre Cardin: French fashion giant dies aged 98

He helped revolutionise fashion with his futuristic designs in the 1960s and 70s.

Ratatouille musical: Stars join show that was cooked up on TikTok

Adam Lambert and Tituss Burgess lead the cast for a show that was cooked up by fans on TikTok.

Russian Covid deaths three times the official toll

The country's deputy prime minister reveals more than 80% of excess deaths are linked to coronavirus.

Hong Kong activist Tony Chung sentenced to four months

Tony Chung, 19, is also awaiting trial on a separate national security charge.

Breonna Taylor statue smashed in California weeks after installation

The artist plans to rebuild the bust of Ms Taylor, a black woman killed by US police, in bronze.

Keyon Harrold: Jazz trumpeter says son assaulted after false theft accusation

Jazz trumpeter Keyon Harrold says the incident happened after a woman falsely accused his son of theft.

Coronavirus: India confirms six cases of new Covid variant

India suspended all UK flights last week in response to the new more transmissible variant.

Covid: Sydney beach party sparks UK backpacker deportation threats

The gathering of hundreds of young revellers on Christmas has prompted calls for deportations.

Covid: US House votes to boost stimulus package payments

The chamber backs President Trump's call for $2,000 payments but the move could stall in the Senate.™

Australian man and child saved after friends walk 12 hours for help

Their friends walked for 12 hours through the Australian desert to seek help after their car got stuck.

Japan developing wooden satellites to cut space junk

A Japanese forestry firm has partnered with Kyoto University in what would be a world first.

Coronavirus: Spain to keep registry of those who refuse Covid vaccine

Vaccination will not be mandatory, officials say, and the register will not be made public.

Zoom: All the times virtual meetings didn't go as planned this year

From animal interruptions to catching fire, here's a look back at the year we spent (badly) online.

India migrants: The tragedy of the tuk-tuk driver who fled Covid

Rajan Yadav is one of millions of migrant workers whose lives were destroyed by India's lockdown.

Will concerts come back in 2021? And other music stories to look out for

How will live shows look when they resume in 2021, and other music stories to look out for.

China Covid-19: How state media and censorship took on coronavirus

We look back at how China's propaganda and censorship machine responded during a particularly dramatic year.

Seeking justice for Lion Sleeps Tonight composer

A music producer remixes an old classic to correct some injustices of the past.

Covid in prison: 'We should be treated like humans'

Reports suggest one-in-five prisoners have tested positive for Covid in the US, and 1,700 have died.

When Greta Thunberg met Margaret Atwood... on Zoom

The teenage climate activist and veteran author and environmentalist were brought together by Radio 4's Today Programme.

The big tech questions for 2021

After a year that saw tech companies prosper, we look ahead to what the coming 12 months could bring.

Joe Biden: 'Enormous damage' to US security agencies by Trump

The president-elect says his team is not getting the information it needs on national security.

Nashville explosion: Motives still unclear in Nashville 'suicide bomb'

The suspect, a 63-year-old man, died in the blast and his only previous offence happened decades ago.

Biden on Trump administration 'irresponsibility'

The US president-elect says agencies critical to US security have suffered "enormous damage" under Trump.

Ghislaine Maxwell denied $28.5m bail in sex crime case

The British socialite, the ex-girlfriend of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, was arrested in July.

Covid: South Africa's Ramaphosa announces new restrictions as cases soar

The measures include a ban on indoor and outdoor gatherings, and a night curfew, until 15 January.

The Queen's Gambit: 'There were no women chess players'

Allan Scott, screenwriter and producer of the Netflix hit, says he stayed faithful to the book.

Hilaria Baldwin denies faking her Spanish heritage

The podcaster and wife of Alec Baldwin has been accused of misleading the public over her heritage.

Rare white kiwi Manukura that inspired book and toys dies

Manukura hatched in 2011, but the female North Island Brown Kiwi was born with white feathers.

Loujain al-Hathloul: Saudi woman activist jailed for five years

Loujain al-Hathloul, 31, was prominent in the campaign to win the right for Saudi women to drive.

Onega: Russian fishing crew missing after trawler sinks in Barents Sea

The fishing trawler sank in the Arctic waters of the Barents Sea with 19 people on board.

Félix Vásquez: Honduran environmental activist killed

Félix Vásquez was shot dead in front of his family by masked gunmen who stormed into his home.

Johnny Mullagh: Australia's Cricket Hall of Fame inducts first Aboriginal player

Johnny Mullagh was one of the stars of the first Australian cricket tour of England in 1868.

Nashville explosion: CCTV captures moment of blast

Police believe the incident in front of a telecommunications office was likely a suicide bombing.

Hong Kong democracy activists caught at sea go on trial in China

The democracy activists were caught at sea as they tried to flee by speedboat to Taiwan.

Dr Mahinder Watsa: India’s most famous ‘sexpert’ dies at 96

Dr Mahinder Watsa was 80 when he started his hugely popular column, answering people’s queries on sex.

Zhang Zhan: China jails citizen journalist for Wuhan reports

Zhang Zhan, who reported on China's first coronavirus outbreak, has received a four year sentence.

Chinese games billionaire poisoned to death

Lin Qi, 39, was the founder of Yoozoo which developed a popular Game of Thrones online game.

Trump signs Covid relief and spending package

The measure restores unemployment benefits and averts a partial US government shutdown.™

Maestro Dudamel takes virtual reality Symphony on tour

Conductor Gustavo Dudamel believes music can lead the way and wants to inspire young people.

Tigray crisis: Eritrea's role in Ethiopian conflict

Ethiopia's leader says Eritrea armed his troops when they first came under attack in Tigray region.

Covid-19: China's painful year fighting the coronavirus

From fear to freedom, we trace China's tumultuous year battling the coronavirus.

'She is beautiful but she is Indian': The student who became a Welsh bard at 19

Dorothy Bonarjee was Indian by birth, English by upbringing, French by marriage - and Welsh at heart.

2020 and me: 'I know the value of family more'

Despite the many challenges, Rula in Istanbul believes 2020 will benefit us in the future.

Covid: South Africa passes one million infections as cases surge

The grim milestone comes after a new variant of coronavirus is identified in the country.

Nashville explosion: Camper van blast suspect named by police

Investigators say Anthony Quinn Warner, 63, died in the powerful explosion on Christmas Day.

Seven killed in knife attack in China's Liaoning province

At least seven people are killed in a stabbing frenzy in the city of Kaiyuan, with a suspect in custody.

Boy Scouts of America accuse Girl Scouts of starting 'war'

The two organisations are caught in a legal battle after the Boy Scouts started recruiting girls.

Rahane gives India control of Boxing Day Test

Stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane's brilliant unbeaten century gives India control of the second Test against Australia on day two.

US former wrestler Brodie Lee dies aged 41

The wrestling world pays tribute to Jon Huber, who was known to fans as Brodie Lee or Luke Harper.

Dog invades football pitch in Bolivia

A dog paused a football game for three minutes, as it ran around with a football boot in its mouth.

US presidents' pets: Biden dogs Major and Champ to restore White House tradition

From Socks the cat to Macaroni the pony, the US presidential tradition is returning with Joe Biden.

Central African Republic election: Polls open amid fears of more violence

Three UN peacekeepers were killed before the election, as tension grows between rebels and the state.

Covid: EU launches mass vaccination in 'touching moment of unity'

Some member states jumped the gun ahead of Sunday's co-ordinated rollout of a coronavirus jab.

Nashville explosion 'probably suicide bombing'

Investigators conduct DNA tests after human remains are found and a house is searched.

Why is India denying prisoners spectacles and straws?

Jail officials have been called out for being cruel to prisoners - especially the government's critics.

How Ugandan Nasa scientist Catherine Nakalembe uses satellites to boost farming

Catherine Nakalembe won this year's Africa Food Prize for pioneering work using satellite images.

How Covid-19 altered world events in 2020

The pandemic affected us all - and shaped global issues, with knock-on effects for millions.

Iran: Climbers die in blizzards and avalanche

At least 10 climbers are killed and seven others are missing in the Alborz mountains near Tehran.

Coronavirus: What has Covid done for climate crisis?

Lockdowns around the world have led to record falls in CO2 emissions. But will this lead to long lasting change?

2020 and me: 'EndSARS was our Black Lives Matter'

After protests, a strike, and lockdown, Kiki, a student from Lagos, Nigeria, can’t wait for the year to be over.

Covid in the classroom: How the pandemic changed these three teachers' lives

Three teachers in the US reflect on how drastically their jobs have changed during 2020.

Coronavirus: EU countries begin mass vaccination

Countries across the EU received their first shipments of the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccines.

Covid: Biden urges Trump to sign coronavirus bill into law

The US president-elect calls for immediate action as millions of people face losing jobless benefits.

Gingerbread monolith appears in San Francisco's Corona Heights

The tall, baked structure appeared in Corona Heights Park on Christmas Day, delighting locals.

Pompeii: Ancient 'fast food' counter to open to the public

Newly unveiled bright frescos are believed to show the food that was available in the Roman city.

Nashville explosion: Businesses and celebrities pledge $315,000 reward

Three people were injured when a camper van exploded in the city centre early on Christmas Day

Chinese economy to overtake US 'by 2028' due to Covid

A UK-based think tank says the pandemic has caused economic momentum to shift further in favour of Asia.

South Africa raise fists before cricket match

South Africa express their "ongoing commitment" to supporting the Black Lives Matter movement as players raise their fists before the first Test against Sri Lanka.

Coronavirus: More cases of new Covid variant found in Europe

Spain confirms cases linked to the UK hours after France, as fears grow of the new variant's spread.

George Blake: Soviet Cold War spy and former MI6 officer dies in Russia

Blake was one of the Cold War's most notorious double agents and betrayed dozens of MI6 personnel.

Several injured after shooting in Berlin

Heavily armed police have been sent to the scene in the Kreuzberg district of the German capital.

737 Max: Air Canada flight in unscheduled landing after engine issue

The plane with three crew landed safely after rerouting on a flight from the US to Canada.

UN peacekeepers killed in Central African Republic on eve of election

The UN said three peacekeepers died in two separate attacks, as rebel and government forces clash.

What a pandemic Christmas looked like around the world

From masked mass to a socially distanced beach party, here's how Christmas looked in 2020.

Business review of 2020: Covid-19 and Trump

2020 saw countries grapple with coronavirus, balancing both public health and economic concerns.

Letter from Africa: Somalia's Christmas birthdays and lost memories

A former refugee considers the importance of memory for those who lose everything in the chaos of war.

The family with no fingerprints

A family in Bangladesh struggles with an extremely rare genetic condition, "immigration delay disease".

What a pandemic Christmas looked like around the world

From masked mass to a socially distanced beach party, here's how Christmas looked in 2020.

France finds first case of new coronavirus variant

The health ministry says an asymptomatic Frenchman who arrived from England tested positive.

Uganda Lake Albert boat accident leaves many dead

Strong winds caused the boat to sink on the lake, which has a history of incidents, officials said.

Nashville hit by deliberate explosion, police in Tennessee say

Three people have been taken to hospital after the blast on Christmas morning, police say.

Boko Haram kill villagers in Christmas Eve attack

The Islamist group also burnt down the church in the Christian village in northeast Nigeria.

Covid: Millions of Americans face unemployment benefits lapse

Critical payments to 14 million people could stop from Saturday in a standoff over a stimulus bill.

Russian historian jailed for dismembering partner

Oleg Sokolov, an expert on Napoleon, was sentenced to 12 and a half years in prison.

Australian expeditioner evacuated from Antarctica in five-day mission

Australia, China and the US work together to medically evacuate the expeditioner.

Rags to riches for cat rescued by waste worker

A waste disposal worker rescues a cat from imminent death while sorting through rubbish at a plant in Russia.

Pope urges coronavirus vaccine access for all

'We cannot erect walls' to its availability, he says, in his first online Christmas Day message.

Alexei Navalny ally Lyubov Sobol 'held after raid'

Lyubov Sobol had earlier turned up at the home of an agent Alexei Navalny says helped poison him.

Notre-Dame: Choir sings inside cathedral for first time since fire

Singers perform inside the Paris cathedral for the first time since the April 2019 fire.

Ivry Gitlis: Celebrated Israeli virtuoso violinist dies at 98

Described as one of the modern greats of classical music, he was a hugely charismatic figure.

Covid: Mexico, Chile and Costa Rica begin mass vaccination

Mexico, Chile and Costa Rica become the first countries in Latin America to begin vaccination campaigns.

Michael Jackson: Neverland Ranch 'sold to billionaire for $22m'

Billionaire Ron Burkle reportedly buys the estate for a quarter of its initial asking price.

Brexit: EU diplomats to get trade deal briefing

MPs are waiting to see the full text of the agreement ahead of a vote in Parliament on 30 December.

How delivery drivers became vital in the pandemic

They made sure no-one had to leave the house but now they are taking on an even more important role.

The refugees feeding a nation

How did French Guiana come to rely on its Hmong citizens for food?

In pictures: Christmas celebrations around the world

This year's services and events are being attended by far fewer people because of the Covid outbreak.

A scene in The Pianist changed Arson Fahim's life

As a young boy, Fahim saw a piano on screen in a refugee camp. "What I saw captivated me," he said.

Astronaut Scott Kelly: How to survive a year in space

Record-breaking astronaut Scott Kelly talks about living in space and his desire to go back.

Georgia climbers who risk their lives for Christmas trees

In the Republic of Georgia, workers harvest the seeds of Nordmann firs for export to Europe.

Brexit: What you need to know about the UK leaving the EU

The UK and EU have reached a post-Brexit deal at the 11th hour

Ethiopia military 'kills 40' after Benishangul-Gumuz massacre

Children were among more than 100 people killed when a village was attacked in western Ethiopia.

Karima Baloch: Activist's family mourns a 'mountain of courage'

Karima Baloch was found dead in Toronto. Her family says she never stopped getting threats, even in exile.

Portugal outrage after Spanish hunters massacre 500 wild animals

Officials seek a criminal probe after photos of 540 deer and boar corpses are shared on social media.

'Balloon boy hoax' parents pardoned in Colorado

The couple were convicted of the hoax in 2009 after saying their son was carried away by a balloon.

The 101-year-old veteran with thousands of Christmas cards

John received mail from around the world after speaking about the loss of his wife on BBC Breakfast

California man 'kills fellow Covid patient with oxygen tank'

The victim, 82, was praying in his hospital bed when a patient in his room got upset, LA police say.

Chrissy Teigen 'sad she will never be pregnant again'

The US model lost the baby she was expecting with husband John Legend earlier this year.

Coronavirus mutes Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem

Celebrations will look very different in Jesus' birthplace this year as virus keeps visitors at bay.

Brexit: UK-EU trade talks continue ahead of likely deal

Johnson and von der Leyen are likely to have another phone call after talks continued overnight.

Pete Evans: Facebook removes celebrity chef's page over conspiracies

Australian celebrity chef Pete Evans has been criticised for spreading misinformation to his followers.

Alibaba being investigated by China over monopoly tactics

The Chinese tech giant is face a probe by regulators into locking merchants into its platform.

Saumitra Khan: India MP threatens to divorce wife who switched party

Indian MP Saumitra Khan sent a divorce notice to wife Sujata Mondal Khan after she joined a rival party.

Coronavirus: New York City orders international visitors to quarantine

Foreign travellers who break the new rules will be fined $1,000 a day, as cases surge across the US.

Airline fires pilot blamed for Taiwan's first Covid case in months

A contact of the pilot tested positive, leading to the first local case since April.

NBA game off as Covid depletes Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets' season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder has been postponed because the Rockets are unable to field enough players.

EU to allow post-Brexit UK farm produce exports

While this is a "critical step forward" seed potatoes are not included due to EU regulatory fears.

Five families, five Christmases: A festive season like no other around Europe

Families in five countries explain how their plans have changed and how they're staying upbeat.

Oscars 2021: What can we expect for the ceremony?

The film industry is hoping it will be high-profile rather than low-key after such a tough year.

Muslim-Canadian's 'first Christmas' goes viral

As a Christmas first-timer, Mohammad Hussain shared his unique perspective on the holiday on Twitter.

India farmer protests: How rural incomes have struggled to keep up

Protests are continuing in India over new laws which farmers say will damage their livelihoods.

Trump pardons former advisers Manafort and Stone

Paul Manafort, Roger Stone and the father of Trump's son-in-law benefit from the latest presidential pardons.

Banjo Paterson: 120-year-old chocolate found in Australian poet's belongings

Remarkably well-preserved chocolate - found in Australia - gives a fascinating glimpse into history.

Covid-19: First trucks start leaving Kent lorry park after France reopens UK border

It comes as drivers clash with police as they wait for tests, despite France reopening its UK border.

Brexit: UK and EU 'haggling', as hopes for trade deal rise

Officials push for a pre-Christmas agreement, after weeks of argument over fishing and business rules.

Covid: France rewards frontline immigrant workers with citizenship

Immigrants naturalised for services during the pandemic include cleaners and shop workers.

DeepMind's AI agent MuZero could turbocharge YouTube

The successor to AlphaGo is being used to create a more efficient type of video compression.

Trump pardons Blackwater security contractors over 2007 Iraq killings

The four men were convicted over their involvement in the shooting of 14 civilians in 2007.

Italy seeks engineer to build new Colosseum floor

The project will have a budget of 18.5m euros (£16.7m; $22.5m) and work is set to start next year.

Octopuses filmed punching fish in the Red Sea

Scientists have filmed octopuses in the Red Sea lashing out at fish during a group hunt.

Erdogan attacks Europe court's order for Demirtas's release

Turkey's president condemns a call by Europe's rights court to free a jailed Kurdish political leader.

Macron's dog Nemo in video plea to be kind to pets

The French president's pooch sends the Christmas message "adopt with awareness!"

Hong Kong pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai granted bail

The founder of Apple Daily, a fierce critic of the Chinese authorities, faces strict house arrest.

France police shootings: Three officers killed by gunman in Saint-Just village

Police were investigating domestic violence in a remote village and the suspect has not been found.

Argentina blackout: Buenos Aires hit by huge power cut

Much of the Argentine capital is left without electricity after fire breaks out near a substation.

Elon Musk says Apple's boss snubbed takeover deal

Tesla's founder claims Apple CEO Tim Cook refused talks during the car company's "darkest days".

Trump urges Congress to amend 'wasteful' coronavirus aid bill

He asks lawmakers to "remove wasteful and unnecessary items", adding the package "really is a disgrace".

Messi breaks Pelé scoring record

Lionel Messi scores his 644th goal for Barcelona during his side's win over Real Valladolid to break Pele's record of the most goals for one club.

Trump pardons two convicted by Russia investigation

Ex-campaign aide George Papadopoulos is among 15 people to benefit from a wave of clemency orders.

The Nigerian blogger scouring the past to inform the future

How a young man's passion for history may help future generations of Nigerians.

Dr Deborah Birx: White House virus expert quits over holiday travel

Dr Deborah Birx says the criticism she has faced for a family get-together is "very difficult".

Covid-19: The Philippines and its lockdown baby boom

The Philippines is preparing for a surge in births which will overwhelm its already creaking systems.

The pioneering lawyer who fought for women’s suffrage in India

Mithan Lam left an indelible stamp on the struggle for gender equality in India.

Covid-19: 'Losing Christmas is irreparable damage'

Foppolo ski resort in the Italian Alps is shut and will miss the all-important Christmas ski season.

Rohingya refugees' perilous journey in search of safety

More than 200 Rohingya refugees are believed to have died or gone missing at sea in 2020.

Talking Movies: How documentary films flourished in 2020

Audiences embraced a wave of non-fiction films including several on the coronavirus pandemic.

Russia hits EU with sanctions in backlash over Navalny sting

The Kremlin mocks Putin critic Alexei Navalny, who revealed how agents allegedly tried to kill him.

Coronavirus spreads to Antarctic research station

The virus reaches all seven continents after 36 people test positive at a Chilean research station.

Covid: Vatican says coronavirus vaccines 'morally acceptable'

The Catholic Church says vaccines developed using cell lines derived from aborted foetuses can be used.

Afghanistan conflict: Kabul car bombing kills four doctors

Three of the doctors, who worked at a prison in the Afghan capital, were women, police say.

In pictures: The great conjunction

Planets Jupiter and Saturn cross paths in the night sky, an event known as the great conjunction.

Marcelo Crivella: Rio mayor arrested over bribery claims

Marcelo Crivella, an evangelical pastor turned politician, was detained by police at dawn.

Ancient mummified wolf pup in Canada 'lived 56,000 years ago'

Scientists say the pup, which died about 56,000 years ago, is "the most complete wolf mummy known".

Are forest fires unlocking radiation in Chernobyl?

Ukraine's firefighters expose dangerous conditions tackling fires in Chernobyl's exclusion zone.

Karima Baloch: Pakistani rights activist found dead in Toronto

Karima Baloch, who was living in exile, was named in the BBC's annual list of 100 inspirational women.

Thai man revives baby elephant with CPR after motorbike accident

The elephant had been hit by a motorbike - but luckily, an off-duty rescue worker came across it.

Paul Whelan: 'Grim life' of US prisoner in Russian labour camp

Paul Whelan was convicted as an American spy earlier this year and sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Trump orders new federal buildings must be 'beautiful'

An executive order says new federal buildings should be in the Greco-Roman classical style.

Sydney Covid cases drop amid record testing

Australia's largest city has recorded its fewest number of new coronavirus cases in several days.

West Point faces worst cheating scandal in decades

Dozens of cadets at the top US military academy cheated on an online maths test, officials say.

Leyla Güven: Turkey sentences Kurdish politician to 22 years in prison

Leyla Güven, an ex-MP for the opposition HDP party, is convicted of membership of a terrorist group.

NZ killer of British backpacker guilty of more attacks

Grace Millane's killer can now be named after he was convicted of sex attacks on two more women.

SLS: Crucial test for Nasa's 'mega-rocket'

Part of a giant rocket that will send humans back to the Moon has undergone a critical test.

Will pregnant women receive the Covid-19 vaccine? It depends

Without pregnant women in trials for the jab, countries are taking different approaches.

1,000 lost on one boat - this woman hopes to name them

An Italian pathologist is trying to identify the migrants on a boat that sank in the Mediterranean in 2015.

Covid: Thanksgiving the cause of a spike in US infections?

Family reunions over the holiday period brought people together, but did they spread coronavirus?

Tanzania 'using Twitter's copyright policy to silence activists'

The guidance meant to deal with rights infringements is being deployed to muzzle critics.

How a young girl's fairy house sparked a magical friendship

When four-year-old Eliana created a fairy house at the start of the pandemic, she soon began finding notes and gifts from a fairy named Sapphire.

Bats, roadblocks and the origins of coronavirus

The BBC came across roadblocks and checkpoints as they tried to report on a decade-long project into viruses that bats carry.

Russian agent 'tricked into detailing Navalny assassination bid'

A new recording purports to reveal how Russian state agents poisoned Putin critic Alexei Navalny.

Covid: Regulator approves first vaccine for EU states

Some EU states could begin rolling out the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine as early as Sunday.

Lockerbie bombing: Alleged bomb-maker charged on 32nd anniversary of attack

The US has charged the suspected bomb-maker behind the 1988 disaster with terrorism-related activities.

Halle synagogue attack: Germany far-right gunman jailed for life

The attacker tried to shoot Jewish worshippers - then killed two people outside a synagogue in Halle.

Ariana Grande announces engagement to Dalton Gomez

The 27-year-old US singer and actress has been with her real estate agent boyfriend for about a year.

Essex lorry deaths: Two found guilty of killing 39 migrants

Prosecutors said the victims died in "unbearable" heat in a lorry container in October 2019.

Mexico violence: Security raised in Puerto Vallarta after ambush

Extra police are sent to Puerto Vallarta after the killing of a former governor of Jalisco state.

Al Jazeera journalists ‘hacked via NSO Group spyware’

NSO Group says a report that its software was used to target journalists “lacks evidence”.

Kyle Rittenhouse: YouTube struggles with hero worship

Kyle Rittenhouse, awaiting trial for killing two protesters, is a hero on parts of YouTube.

Rwanda bolsters force in CAR as rebels 'held back'

It has deployed what it calls a "protection force" after its peacekeepers there came under attack.

Christmas star: Planets set to align in the night sky

Jupiter and Saturn - the Solar System's largest planets - are set to cross paths in the night sky.

Covid-19: Couple holds 10,000 people drive-thru wedding in Malaysia

It took three hours for all guests to exchange a wave and smile with the newly-weds in Malaysia.

Covid: Denmark to dig up millions of mink culled over virus

The animals will be exhumed from mass graves next year to prevent pollution, the government says.

Covid: EU to discuss response to variant as travel bans on UK expand

European officials will discuss a co-ordinated travel response to a new coronavirus variant in the UK.

Covid: Thailand tests thousands after virus outbreak in seafood market

Tens of thousands will be tested after hundreds of cases linked to Thailand's biggest seafood market.

Covid: Australian states enforce travel bans amid Sydney outbreak

All states and territories have begun enforcing travel bans, upending Christmas plans for many people.

European regulator says Boeing's 737 Max is safe

Executive Director Patrick Ky said his organisation had "left no stone unturned" in its review.

The Belgian 'hero' who invaded UK fishing waters

The story of Victor Depaepe, who tested fishing rights in UK waters granted by King Charles II.

'Yes, people have Zoom fatigue but it's not our fault'

Zoom director Aparna Bawa says video conferencing can tire people out, but her firm isn't to blame.

How should you talk to friends and relatives who believe conspiracy theories?

Advice from experts and those who used to believe conspiracy theories about how to avoid rows this festive season.

Sudan-Israel deal fuels migrants' fears

Israel is supported by some Sudanese communities, yet restoring relations may not be good news from them.

K2: 'Savage Mountain' beckons for unprecedented winter climb

Two European climbers set off this week in an attempt to scale the winter summit of K2.

Captagon - Destroying the frontline drug

A seizure with a street value of more than $1bn (£900m) has revealed the scale of illegal drug production in Syria.

Covid: US reaches long awaited deal for coronavirus aid

The deal on the $900bn package comes as millions are jobless or in poverty due to the pandemic.

Covid-19: Dover port halts traffic to France for 48 hours

France is to stop lorries arriving from the UK amid concern over a new variant of coronavirus.

Miss France runner-up April Benayoum targeted by anti-Semitic tweets

Police are investigating insults against April Benayoum after she revealed her Israeli origins.

Iceland: Town of Seydisfjordur evacuated after mudslide hits

An 11-year-old boy had no time to dress as he and his father were forced to run from their home.

New coronavirus variant: What do we know?

How has a new coronavirus variant become the most common form of the virus in parts of England?

US cyber-attack: Around 50 firms 'genuinely impacted' by massive breach

The expert whose company uncovered the hack also backs US officials' view that Russia was behind it.

Ethiopia explosion: 'Abandoned' bomb kills three in Addis Ababa

All those who died in the Addis Ababa blast were homeless, police say, and five others were wounded.

Germany and Finland bring home women from Islamic State camps

Three of the women are under investigation for allegedly belonging to the Islamic State (IS) group.

François Bozizé: CAR former president denies 'attempted coup'

François Bozizé's spokesman denies the government's claim that he is marching on the capital.

Nigeria kidnapping: Mahuta children rescued after gun battle

Police say vigilantes helped rescue 84 children after Nigeria's second mass kidnapping in nine days.

Covid: Belgium and Netherlands ban flights from UK over variant

The Netherlands and Belgium suspend flights to prevent a fast-spreading variant of coronavirus.

Cardinal Pell says his conservative views drove public against him

The ex-Vatican treasurer was acquitted of child sexual abuse and released from prison this year.

Covid: WHO in 'close contact' with UK over new variant

UK officials say the new variant is spreading more rapidly, but it is not believed to be more deadly.

Biden says 'no time to waste' as climate team unveiled

The US president-elect says the team will lead his "ambitious plan" to combat climate change.

Covid vaccine: 'Disappearing' needles and other rumours debunked

We examine widely shared false claims about vaccines - from "disappearing" needles to a "dead" nurse.

Christmas celebrations to go ahead in Bethlehem

BBC Middle East correspondent Yolande Knell joins the rehearsals for the festive processions.

'God will forgive me or not': Inside the world of a people smuggler

Noor charges Afghans thousands of dollars to travel to Europe. He claims he is getting out of the business.

Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: 'How we survived when Mekelle was shelled'

Ethiopia's prime minister says no civilians were killed in the Tigray conflict. Three witnesses say otherwise.

Uganda election: False claims about Joe Biden and others

Claims about the US president-elect are among misinformation being widely shared during an election.

Spain housing: Evictions and broken promises in a pandemic

Spain's prime minister promised nobody would be evicted during the pandemic but activists say thousands have.

Senegal's Dakar Fashion Week: The catwalk in a baobab forest

Held outside because of the pandemic, a fashion show in Senegal embraces the environmental message.

MasterChef final is dream come true for Nepal’s Santosh Shah

Getting to the MasterChef final is like a dream for Santosh Shah, who is from a tiny village in Nepal.

Canada 'Sixties Scoop': Indigenous survivors map out their stories

Canada's "Sixties Scoop" saw thousands of indigenous children forcibly removed from their families.

Australia v India: How Virat Kohli's side were skittled for 36

The story of an extraordinary day that saw India start as favourites for the first Test but crumble to 36 all out and lose to Australia by eight wickets.

Lionel Messi equals Pele goalscoring record with 643rd goal for Barcelona

Lionel Messi scores his 643rd goal for Barcelona - equalling Pele's record for goals for a single club - but his side draw at home to Valencia.

Covid: Chile's president Sebastián Piñera fined $3,500 for no-mask selfie

Sebastián Piñera apologised for breaching Covid rules by posing for the photo on a beach this month.

François Bozizé: CAR accuses former president of 'attempted coup'

The Central African Republic says forces loyal to François Bozizé plan to march on the capital Bangui.

ICYMI: Runaway sheep and a big bale of turtles

Here are some of the stories you may have missed this week.

Covid-19: Explosion kills nine coronavirus patients in Turkey

Nine people are killed as an oxygen ventilator explodes at a coronavirus ward of a private hospital.

Epstein ex-associate Jean-Luc Brunel placed under formal investigation

Modelling agent Jean-Luc Brunel is accused of rape and sexual harassment by French authorities.

Caliphate: NY Times loses awards for Islamic State podcast over false reporting

The paper admits its blockbuster podcast about Islamic State group failed to meet editorial standards.

US cyber-attack: Russia 'clearly' behind SolarWinds operation, says Pompeo

US secretary of state says Moscow is "clearly" responsible for a hack targeting government agencies.

737 Max: Boeing 'inappropriately coached' pilots in test after crashes

US Senate investigators find problems with tests conducted in the wake of two deadly crashes.

Covid: Italy latest European country to order Christmas lockdown

Non-essential shops will be closed with travel only allowed for work, health and emergency reasons.

US charges ex-Zoom employee with shutting down Tiananmen Square events

US prosecutors say the China-based executive terminated meetings discussing the 1989 crackdown.

Covid: US approves Moderna as second vaccine

The Food and Drug Administration gives the green light for releasing millions of doses.

Covid : US Vice-President Pence 'didn't feel a thing'

Mike Pence received the coronavirus vaccine live and said he "didn't feel a thing".

Vanessa Bryant, her mother's lawsuit and the value of childcare

Vanessa Bryant's messy legal dispute with her mother has also got us talking about the value of housework.

Hunger spikes, demand rises for US food banks

Amid the pandemic, one in eight Americans say their household has experienced a food shortage.

Kangaroos can 'communicate' with humans, study finds

Their behaviour challenges a notion that such abilities come only from domestication, a study finds.

Covid: The countries worried they won't get the vaccine

Countries such as Zimbabwe, Mexico and Pakistan are likely to have to wait for the coronavirus vaccine.

Faith and fertility at Bethlehem's Milk Grotto

Some say the place where Mary is said to have nursed Jesus holds the power to help couples conceive.

Coronavirus in South Africa: Unravelling the mystery

Antibody tests show that up to a third of South Africans may have contracted coronavirus during the first wave.

Blindian Project: Celebrating black and South Asian relationships

Blindian Project runs workshops to prepare couples for tricky family introductions.

North Korea: Potato propaganda is back... but what does it mean?

Why is North Korea promoting the humble spud in movies, culinary shows, and news reports?

Microplastics, drugs and food - how jellyfish can help us

Jellyfish are being used to develop new medicines, filters for microplastics and for food.

Libya's Gen Haftar frees Italy fishermen held for months

Italy's PM wins the release of 18 fishermen based in Sicily who have been detained since September.

Nigeria school attack: Was it really Boko Haram?

Militant activity is spreading across northern Nigeria with other groups expressing allegiance to Boko Haram

Covid: US Vice-President Mike Pence to receive vaccine

Mike Pence is set to receive the vaccine publicly on Friday to 'build confidence" among Americans.

Mozambique's Islamist insurgency: UN warns of rising violence in Cabo Delgado

The UN also blames a failure to distribute vast mineral and gas revenues to the local population.

Japan: Snow traps 1,000 drivers in frozen traffic jam

Heavy snow has left drivers stranded on a highway in Japan, some of them since Wednesday night.

Sony pulls Cyberpunk 2077 from PlayStation store

Players say the game is riddled with bugs and glitches and is prone to crashes so will offer refunds.

The angry pop song calling out China's domestic violence problem

Xiao Juan is the first pop song in China to openly discuss the sensitive topic of domestic violence.

Trump trade chief wants WTO leadership race reopened

Picking a new leader for the WTO will be a challenge for Joe Biden as the global economy struggles with coronavirus.

Alibaba says its technology won't target Uighurs

A recent report said China's Alibaba's facial recognition technology can pick out Uighur minorities.

Covid: Moderna vaccine moves closer to US approval

A panel of US experts say the Moderna vaccine should be given emergency use approval.

Deb Haaland: Historic Native American 'pick for Biden cabinet'

Deb Haaland would be the first Native American in a cabinet secretary role, overseeing public lands.

Google sued again over anti-competitive search practices

US states accuse Google of unfairly abusing monopolies to dominate new tech like voice assistants.

Coronavirus: Swiss count cost of surge in deaths

Swiss leaders decide on Friday whether to impose tougher measures, as deaths reach 100 a day.

Biden cabinet: Does this new team better reflect America?

The role of a president's inaugural cabinet goes beyond just policy - let's take a closer look.

'A total mess': Venezuelans see little hope of improvement

With many Venezuelans spending days in queues for fuel, hope for the future is at a new low.

Africa's week in pictures: 11 - 17 December 2020

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

US cyber-attack: Hack of government agencies and companies poses 'grave risk'

The US cyber-security agency says thwarting the attack will be "highly complex and challenging".

Covid: Sydney residents urged to stay home amid new outbreak

Residents are told to stay home as officials scramble to contain a cluster ahead of Christmas.

Covid vaccine: India expects to 'begin vaccination in January'

India's vaccination programme aims to reach 300 million people by early August.

The impact of Covid rule-breakers

Is rule-breaking causing the Covid-19 surge?

Covid in India: How do you vaccinate 1.3 billion people?

The BBC looks at how India plans to vaccinate its vast population against Covid-19.

US couple find 100-year-old whisky bottles hidden in walls of home

In 1920, the US banned alcohol but bootleggers went to extraordinary lengths to hide the illicit goods.

Celebrating Hanukkah and tackling anti-Semitism

Young Jews have marked the festival by posting videos honouring traditions and fighting anti-Semitism.

Arab Spring: 10 moments, 10 years on

On the 10 year anniversary of the Arab Spring, the BBC looks at 10 defining moments of the movement.

Russia's Putin calls Navalny poisoning inquiry 'a trick'

Russia's president scorns a report alleging that agents poisoned opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Afghanistan conflict: Top US general meets Taliban negotiators

General Mark Milley, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, met negotiators in Doha, the military said.

Coronavirus: Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf says coronavirus approach 'has failed'

Sweden has been criticised for its more relaxed approach to handling the pandemic.

Hotel Rwanda 'hero' sues Greek airline for 'aiding kidnap'

The man depicted in the Hollywood film is in prison in Rwanda awaiting trial on terrorism charges.

Maradona's body 'must be conserved' for DNA test, judge rules

The body must be conserved, a judge rules, as a woman claims the football legend may be her father.

Road chaos across north-eastern US

More than 60 million people are affected by a powerful snowstorm, in 14 US states.

Emmanuel Macron: French president tests positive for Covid

The 42-year-old took a test after experiencing symptoms and will now self-isolate for seven days.

Covid and vitamin D: 'Not enough evidence' for treatment

People are still advised to take a daily supplement this winter to keep bones and muscles healthy.

Bitcoin hits all-time high rising above $20,000

The virtual currency has gained more than 170% this year amid stock market turmoil during the pandemic.

Google ad practices under fire in new lawsuit

Ten US states accuse the tech firm of illegally trying to preserve its online advertising monopoly.

China biodegradable plastics 'failing to solve pollution crisis'

China's increase in biodegradables is outpacing its ability to degrade plastic, warns Greenpeace.

US snow storm: Millions on east coast under advisory

The storm is expected to stretch from Colorado to Maine with warnings in place in 14 states.

'Love jihad': What a reported miscarriage says about India's anti-conversion law

A young Hindu says she miscarried after being separated from her Muslim husband under a new law.

China's drinkers develop taste for home-grown wines

Chinese drinkers are increasingly choosing to buy and drink wines from their own country.

Tigray crisis: How Ethiopian doctors fled militia attacks

Ethiopian doctors tell the BBC about their efforts to treat wounded civilians during fighting last month.

Brexit trade talks: Could the UK and the EU keep negotiating?

What happens if there's a last-minute Brexit trade deal or they need to keep talking?

In pictures: The beauty of toilets

Photographer Elena Heatherwick captures the stories behind them in villages in Rwanda and Madagascar.

Viola Davis: 'In my world, there are a lot of Ma Raineys'

Viola Davis on her new movie with Chadwick Boseman and how black women are represented on screen.

Covid: Melbourne towers lockdown 'breached human rights'

A snap decision to confine 3,000 people to public housing units was unlawful, a report finds.

Marshall Islands: Record drugs haul washes up on shore

About 49kg (1,430lbs) of cocaine was found hidden inside a boat that had washed ashore.

CCTV shows the moment farm animals visited a town hall

A sheep, a goat and three lambs escaped from their farm in Turkey, ending up at a nearby town hall.

US Federal Reserve warns of 'challenging months'

Despite optimism over coronavirus vaccine distribution, other economic signals have worsened.

East Africa fears second wave - of locust swarms

Good breeding conditions mean millions of people are now threatened in the Horn of Africa and Yemen.

Iraq anti-government activist 'killed by gunmen in Baghdad'

Salah al-Iraqi played a prominent role in anti-government protests in Iraq's capital.

Paris mayor mocks 'absurd' fine for hiring too many women

City mayor Anne Hidalgo mocks the "absurd" penalty for breaking equal employment rules.

Tom Cruise: Recording emerges of star 'shouting at film crew' over Covid

A recording emerges of the Mission: Impossible star apparently letting fly about social distancing.

Gay conversion therapy: Hundreds of religious leaders call for ban

More than 370 leaders from the world's major faiths join a call to stop "harmful practices".

Brexit: 'Narrow path' in view for trade deal - EU chief

The president of the EU Commission says the "next few days" will be decisive for trade negotiations.

Covid-19: Singapore migrant workers infections were three times higher

New data shows the number of infections was three times higher than previously estimated.

Struggling Air India could be taken over by workers

A group representing employees is one of a number of bidders for India's loss-making national carrier.

Will conflict return to Sudan's Darfur region when peacekeepers leave?

Concerns grow for people's safety in Sudan's war-torn Darfur as peacekeepers prepare to leave.

Will conflict return to Sudan's Darfur region when peacekeepers leave?

Concerns grow for people's safety in Sudan's war-torn Darfur as peacekeepers prepare to leave.

Australia launches WTO appeal against China's barley tariff

In a trade row escalation, Australia says it will challenge China's tariff on its barley exports.

MacKenzie Scott gives away $4.2bn in four months

The ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has been focusing on women, people of colour and food banks.

Peru: Police conduct drugs raid dressed as Santa Claus and elf

Police in Peru raid a house dressed as Santa Claus and an elf, and detain a suspected drug dealer.

SolarWinds: Why the Sunburst hack is so serious

The hack of thousands of high-profile organisations, including the US government, could have major consequences.

Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: About 2.3 million children cut off from aid, UN says

The UN urges access to the region where Ethiopian government forces have been battling local fighters.

Great Pyramid: Lost Egyptian artefact found in Aberdeen cigar box

The 5,000-year-old piece of wood, originally found in the Great Pyramid in 1872, is said to be "hugely significant".

The architect rebuilding Beirut's homes for free

Joe Salloum and his team are bringing hope, and homes, back to people who live in the poorest areas of Beirut.

Germany starts Christmas lockdown amid Covid surge

New restrictions come into force limiting festivities to the smallest of family gatherings.

Prato: The Italian town turning rags into new clothes

A small Italian town has built its fortune on transforming the world's old scraps into new clothes.

French culture takes centre stage in Covid protest

Actors, musicians and theatre directors gather to criticise the decision not to reopen culture venues.

Abhishek Bachchan: A Bollywood star's romance with kabaddi

Abhishek Bachchan's team is the subject of a new TV series by an award winning British filmmaker.

Kangaroos can 'communicate' with humans, study finds

Their behaviour challenges a notion that such abilities come only from domestication, a study finds.

Beirut explosion: The architect rebuilding families' homes for free

Joe Salloum and his team are bringing hope, and homes, back to people who live in the poorest areas of Beirut.

Pakistan anti-rape ordinance signed into law by president

The measure aims to speed up convictions and includes chemical castration for rapists.

Malka Leifer: Israel court approves extradition of sex abuse suspect to Australia

The Supreme Court rules that former principal Malka Leifer can bet sent to Australia to face charges.

Coronavirus: European nations tighten restrictions ahead of Christmas

The Netherlands and Germany will be in lockdown over the festive period after Covid-19 cases spike.

Ann Reinking: Broadway actress and dancer dies aged 71

The Tony Award-winning choreographer portrayed Roxie Hart in the hit musical Chicago

How one boy escaped kidnappers

Usama Aminu describes his ordeal as he managed to escape the mass kidnapping in Nigeria's Katsina school.

Ghislaine Maxwell: Jeffrey Epstein associate seeks $28.5m bail deal

Ms Maxwell denies charges that she helped the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein groom young girls.

Hayabusa-2: Pieces of an asteroid found inside space capsule

Scientists in Japan open the Hayabusa-2 space capsule that landed just over a week ago.

Afghanistan: Kabul governor killed in 'sticky bomb' attack on car

Mahboobullah Mohebi is the latest of several officials, journalists and activists to be targeted.

Japan 'Twitter killer' sentenced to death

Takahiro Shiraishi was convicted for killing nine people he had contacted on the social media platform.

Mission to investigate gigantic iceberg

Scientists will send robotic vehicles under the colossal berg drifting in the South Atlantic.

Pinterest in $22.5m gender discrimination payout

The $22.5m payout by Pinterest to a former top executive is the largest of its kind to be publicly disclosed.

Craig McLachlan: Actor found not guilty in indecent assault case

The former Neighbours actor has consistently denied allegations raised by four women in Australia.

Joe Biden says 'will of people prevailed' after victory confirmed

The Democrat has been formally certified as the next US president by the country's electoral college.

Australia storms: Floods spark evacuation warnings for NSW towns

Some New South Wales residents are told to leave their homes, after storms batter two states.

EU Digital Services Act set to bring in new rules for tech giants

Europe is set to announce two new acts in the biggest shake-up of digital laws in 20 years.

A palm oil alternative could help save rainforests

Plantations for palm oil are blamed for rainforest destruction, but an artificial palm oil is close.

Coronavirus: The day US began Covid vaccinations

A massive vaccination effort has kicked off with healthcare workers first to get a vaccine.

MasterChef final is dream come true for Nepal’s Santosh Shah

Getting to the MasterChef final is like a dream for Santosh Shah, who is from a tiny village in Nepal.

Hunger spikes, demand rises for US food banks

Amid the pandemic, one in eight Americans say their household has experienced a food shortage.

Senegal's Dakar Fashion Week: The catwalk in a baobab forest

Held outside because of the pandemic, a fashion show in Senegal embraces the environmental message.

Why India's doctors differ on Covid-19 plasma therapy

The therapy is allowed in many countries despite unanswered questions over its efficacy.

Yemen: How Covid-19 spread in a war zone

Already facing a humanitarian crisis, Yemenis have been left in the dark over the coronavirus outbreak.

Experiencing a lockdown world through hang gliding

Hang glider Wolfgang Siess lost his job due to coronavirus, so he started filming his flights to try and attract more people to the sport.

Google outage: YouTube, Docs and Gmail knocked offline

Users around the world are unable to access applications including YouTube, Gmail and Docs.

Venezuela crisis: Fleeing migrants found drowned

The migrants were thought to have been heading for Trinidad and Tobago.

Australia storms: Dog rescued and beaches damaged as extreme weather hits coast

Hazel disappeared under a sea of foam at Byron Bay as wild weather battered the coast.

Cleveland Indians baseball team to change name: US media

President Donald Trump tweets "cancel culture at work!" after reports of the move emerge.

Kameel Ahmady: British FGM academic 'jailed in Iran'

Kameel Ahmady was sentenced to eight years for collaborating with a hostile power, his lawyer says.

Geminid meteor shower dazzles night skies

Some of the best views of the annual meteor shower were above Lijiang city in southwest China.

US ends Sudan's listing as sponsor of terror

Sudan has agreed to pay $335m to US victims of terror and has normalised relations with Israel.

US treasury and commerce departments targeted in cyber attack

All federal civilian agencies are told to switch off a network tool exploited by "malicious actors".

Spain housing: Evictions and broken promises in a pandemic

Spain's prime minister promised nobody would be evicted during the pandemic but activists say thousands have.

China warns of interference over Bloomberg journalist arrest

International pressure is mounting after a Chinese Bloomberg journalist was detained by Beijing.

Covid-19: White House officials to receive some of first Pfizer vaccines

Top officials are set to be given some of the first vaccines, which are being rolled out in the US.

New Zealand sex worker wins six-figure sum in sexual harassment case

The payout comes after the woman filed a sexual harassment case against a business owner.

Indonesia courts SpaceX as new rocket launch site

The South East Asian country is already in talks with Elon Musk about a possible partnership.

New Zealand and Australia agree on quarantine-free travel bubble

Both countries have very few cases and will allow travellers to go back and forth without quarantine.

Australia storms: Wild weather lashes vast stretch of east coast

Heavy rain and huge ocean swells batter popular tourist spots, prompting hundreds of calls for help.

Ambrose Dlamini: Eswatini's PM dies after testing positive for Covid-19

The country's government says Ambrose Dlamini, 52, died in hospital in South Africa on Sunday.

Inside a vaccine cold storage room

The BBC's Karishma Vaswani takes a look around a vaccine cold storage facility in Singapore.

Kenya's black market baby trade: A mother's choice

What drives a mother to sell her baby for £70? The story of a woman caught between poverty and traffickers.

US election 2020: What is the electoral college?

The president of the United States is not chosen directly by voters, but by what's known as the electoral college.

Fear and mistrust stalk Kashmir polls

The first elections since the region lost its special status last year have seen low voter turnout.

Canada 'Sixties Scoop': Indigenous survivors map out their stories

Canada's "Sixties Scoop" saw thousands of indigenous children forcibly removed from their families.

Covid vaccine: How does a vaccine get approved?

The NHS is carrying out the biggest mass vaccination campaign in its history with a jab that protects against Covid-19. What safety checks were made for it to get to this point?

US election: Can you explain the electoral college in 10 seconds?

Jay and Peter are two of the 538 US electors, who vote on Monday to formally choose the next president.

Arrests as Indian workers ransack iPhone plant over wages

Workers at the Taiwanese-run factory near Bangalore said they had not been fully paid for months.

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Max Verstappen claims second win of year at season finale

Max Verstappen ends a frustrating season for Red Bull on a high with a dominant victory in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

UK and EU agree to extend Brexit trade talks

Ursula von der Leyen says talks were "constructive", but Boris Johnson warns no deal is "most likely".

Nagorno-Karabakh conflict flares despite ceasefire

The tension comes after a six-week war killed thousands over the disputed territory in the Caucasus.

Coronavirus: US starts huge vaccine delivery operation

The US has started distributing the vaccine to hundreds of locations across the country.

Jill Biden: Backlash after WSJ op-ed calls future first lady 'kiddo'

Opinion writer Joseph Epstein argued only medical doctors should call themselves Dr.

Motjeka Madisha: South Africa footballer dies in car crash

Motjeka Madisha, 25, was capped 13 times for the national team and was seen as a rising star.

Von der Leyen: 'It is responsible to go the extra mile and continue talks'

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen says Brexit talks will continue because it's the 'responsible thing to do'.

Coronavirus: Germany to go into lockdown over Christmas

The authorities have been struggling to control a growing number of infections and deaths.

US election: Pro-Trump rallies see scuffles in US cities

"Stop the Steal" marchers gathered to back President Trump's push to reverse his election defeat.

Charley Pride: Country music singer dies of Covid-19

The Grammy-winning artist was the first black singer to enter the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Paolo Rossi: Italian World Cup hero's home burgled during funeral

A watch and cash are among items reported stolen from the late World Cup winner's home on Saturday.

Covid vaccines: Will drug companies make bumper profits?

Governments and charities have invested billions in vaccines developed by private firms.

No pickers, no coffee: How Covid threatens Colombia's harvest

Labour shortages caused by the coronavirus pandemic are hitting coffee growers in Colombia hard.

Electoral College: The people who ultimately pick the US president

Members of the US Electoral College meet on Monday - but who are they?

Interior Chinatown: The novel taking on Hollywood’s Asian tropes

This year's winner of the US National Book Award for fiction explores what it means to be Asian in America.

India farmers: Misleading claims about high-profile support

Misinformation is being shared about prominent politicians and the current protests in India.

Earth Photo winners announced

A project on abandoned spaces reclaimed by nature has won the 2020 Earth Photo competition.

Astronomy: 'Odd radio circles' in the sky a ‘genuine mystery’

A new high-powered telescope has discovered inexplicable ghostly circles in the sky.

Mateusz Kuzimski: The veg packer who became a pro footballer

Mateusz Kuzimski was working on a line in England - before returning to Poland to chase his dream.

Abortion laws: Polish women forced abroad for terminations

Poland has been rocked by weeks of protest over a ruling by the Constitutional Court, which has all but outlawed abortion, forcing even more Polish women to seek abortions abroad.

Call of Duty: US and British military go head to head

Teams from the US and British forces compete for the first time to raise money for veteran charities.

Hurricane season 2020: Is global warming making hurricanes stronger?

The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season was one of the most active on record, according to the US National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration. Is it a result of global warming?

US Covid vaccination: 'The mission begins'

Gen Gustave Perna says he is confident of the safe distribution of the "precious commodity" across the US.

Covid: US public to receive Pfizer vaccinations from Monday

The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine was approved earlier this week and doses are already being shipped out.

Spanish police rescue 21 'exploited' migrant workers from warehouse

Three people are arrested after police find workers in a secret room hidden behind piles of clothes.

Boris Johnson on climate change, mung-bean munching and creating jobs

From mung-bean munching to being the Saudi Arabia of wind power generation, here's a summary of the UK PM's climate speech.

Black Lives Matter: Driver charged after crashing into New York protest

Six were injured when the car ploughed into a crowd of 50 protesters on Friday in New York City.

World needs to declare 'climate emergency' - UN

The UN secretary general has called on all countries to declare a climate emergency.

Nigeria school attack: Hundreds missing after gunmen attack building in Katsina

Gunmen on motorbikes raid a boarding school, home to some 800 boys, in north-western Katsina state.

Space tourism: Virgin space plane to fly above new base

Sir Richard Branson's tourist rocket plane will make a first flight above its new spaceport home.

ICYMI: Whales in New York to crossing the border for a haircut

In this week's In Case You Missed It, we round up some of the video stories that might have passed you by.

Covid pandemic: South Korea sees record rise in daily cases

The country has been praised as a model of how to deal with coronavirus but cases have surged.

Zodiac Killer: Code-breakers solve San Francisco killer's cipher

A three-strong amateur team decodes one of several messages attributed to a US serial killer.

Ruhollah Zam: Iran executes journalist accused of fanning unrest

Ruhollah Zam ran a site that Iran accuses of inciting the nationwide protests of 2017-18.

Alfred Bourgeois: Second death row inmate executed in two days

President Donald Trump has planned three more executions before he leaves office on 20 January.

'I got a tattoo on my torso to match my son's birthmark'

When his son started feeling self-conscious about his birthmark, Derek Prue got a tattoo to match.

Pushbacks: Migrants accuse Greece of sending them back out to sea

Greece insists such accusations are an insult but some migrants documented their trips with GPS.

GeeSixFive: The woman who became a pop sensation at 65

Olpha Selepe, also known as GeeSixFive, shot to fame with a hit single just weeks before her death.

China Covid: Infected woman defends herself after public shaming

A 20-year-old who was rounded on by Chinese internet trolls has spoken out.

The man behind Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas Is You

Walter Afanasieff co-wrote and produced Mariah Carey's festive classic, which has hit UK number one after 26 years.

US Supreme Court rejects Trump-backed bid to overturn election

The lawsuit sought to invalidate results in four states where President Trump lost the US election.

Aztec skull tower: Archaeologists unearth new sections in Mexico City

A further 119 skulls of men, women and children are found near a famous Aztec temple in Mexico City.

How Saddam Hussein tried to break into the film business

Oliver Reed travelled to Iraq in the 1980s when Saddam Hussein tried to join the movie business.

Turning sounds from around the world into music

Classically-trained musician Belle Chen uses ambient recordings sent from people across the globe.

Covid: Trials to test combination of Oxford and Sputnik vaccines

The aim is to see whether mixing two vaccines could improve protection against Covid-19.

Argentina abortion legalisation bill passes key vote

Parliament's lower house voted to legalise abortion but the bill must pass the Senate to become law.

Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: Four aid workers killed

Four aid workers were killed last month during fighting in the Tigray region, aid agencies say.

Climate change: EU leaders set 55% target for CO2 emissions cut

All-night talks lead to a goal of cutting CO2 emissions by 55% over the next decade.

Hezbollah militant Salim Ayyash given life sentences for Hariri killing

Salim Ayyash had been convicted of assassinating Lebanon's former PM with a massive car bomb in 2005.

Hong Kong pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai charged under security law

The pro-democracy media billionaire is the most high-profile figure to fall foul of the controversial law.

Harrison Ford returns as Indiana Jones for fifth and final episode

The film is to be the 78-year-old actor's fifth and final instalment in one of his most famous roles.

Freed Uighur family reunited in Australia after three-year separation

Australia lobbied for the release of the Uighur woman and her Australian child for three years.

Covid-19: Virus ‘success’ Taiwan to keep restrictions despite vaccine

Taiwan warns of another virus spike if people relax safety measures counting on a vaccine.

Biden and Harris named Time's Person of the Year

The US president-elect and his running mate beat three other finalists, including Donald Trump.

Covid: China asks cabin crew to wear nappies to reduce virus risk

New coronavirus guidelines recommend cabin crew use disposable diapers and avoid the toilet.

EU breaks deadlock over €1.8tn budget and Covid-recovery fund

A compromise was reached with Hungary and Poland who had threatened a veto over the rule-of-law clause.

Africa's week in pictures: 4 - 10 December 2020

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

Climate change: Covid drives record emissions drop in 2020

The world has seen the biggest annual fall in CO2 emissions since World War Two, say researchers.

Covid: Australian vaccine abandoned over false HIV response

Trials of the Australian vaccine returned false-positive HIV tests, but did not harm participants.

Muslim men on no-fly list have right to sue FBI, says US Supreme Court

Three men say the FBI violated their religious beliefs by pressuring them to spy on other Muslims.

Plexiglass, sanitiser and masks: US mall Santas prepare for Christmas

Malls that have hosted visits with Santa for over 100 years are being forced to change their approach.

Latin America politics: UK's 1960s covert activity revealed

Declassified files reveal Britain's attempts to wield influence in Latin America in the 1960s.

Iran's Supreme Leader: Who might succeed Ali Khamenei?

Rumours about Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's health have thrown the spotlight on his possible successors.

Waldemar Haffkine: The vaccine pioneer the world forgot

Waldemar Haffkine created the world's first vaccines for cholera and plague. Then a disaster derailed his life.

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom: Chadwick Boseman 'a character actor'

Oscar-winner, Davis, stars alongside Boseman in the highly anticipated Ma Rainey's Black Bottom.

Hundreds of volunteers are helping to map the Great Barrier Reef

Volunteers have been asked to take and categorise thousands of photos of the Great Barrier Reef.

New Zealand: Fixing the ruined Christchurch Cathedral that's frozen in time

New drone footage shows Christchurch Cathedral that's been untouched since the 2011 earthquake.

EU sets out plans in case Brexit trade talks fail

The EU publishes contingency plans in case of the collapse of Brexit trade talks with the UK, including measures for air and road travel.

Albanian protesters burn Christmas trees over police killing

Protesters are angry after a man was allegedly killed by police for breaking a coronavirus curfew.

Deadly fire engulfs Barcelona abandoned warehouse

A warehouse fire in the Spanish city's Badalona area killed at least two while dozens fled.

Afghanistan violence: Journalist Malala Maiwand shot dead along with her driver

Gunmen open fire on Malala Maiwand's vehicle as she travels to work in the eastern city of Jalalabad.

Paolo Rossi: Italy's 1982 World Cup hero dies aged 64

Italy's 1982 World Cup hero Paolo Rossi, who finished top scorer at the tournament and got the opening goal in the final, has died aged 64.

Climate change: Have countries kept their promises?

Five years after the Paris climate deal was agreed, we look at the promises made by key countries.

China-US relations: Beijing says Twitter hacked after Trump retweet

The Chinese Embassy in the US said it didn't retweet the outgoing president's disputed fraud claims.

Asian honeybees 'defend hives from hornets with faeces'

The finding is thought to be the first to document the use of tools by Asian honeybees.

Paolo Rossi, Italy's 1982 World Cup hero, dies aged 64

The striker's hat-trick eliminated Brazil on the way to Italy's triumph in the competition in Spain.

Covid-19: The mask-wearing US city that bucked the trend

Compulsory mask-wearing has been highly controversial in the US.

Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: How a soldier survived an 11-hour gun battle

Ethiopian soldiers recount the dramatic moment their army camps were raided in Tigray.

The Syrian mercenaries used as 'cannon fodder' in Nagorno-Karabakh

Four Syrians say they enlisted for sentry duties in Azerbaijan and were sent to the Nagorno-Karabakh front line.

Covid: Students and retirees form long-distance friendships

The pandemic inspires a scheme to pair language students with older people in France via video link.

New Christmas campaign for Canadians held in China

The campaign is based on efforts around a similar case involving a British journalist fifty years ago.

How Slumdog composer is giving Indian talent a helping hand

AR Rahman on joining Bafta's search for emerging artists in India's film, TV and games industries.

Why 'preppers' are going mainstream

Why "preppers" are going mainstream and are no longer lonely survivalists on the fringes of society.

US Covid vaccine: Three key questions answered

How will Americans receive the vaccine? Will it be free? And will enough people take it?

Elon Musk's Starship prototype makes a big impact

The US entrepreneur's latest Starship rocket prototype impresses in flight, but crashes on landing.

The dead professor and the vast pro-India disinformation campaign

A Harvard icon and fake media have been used in a global campaign to serve Indian interests, research reveals.

Humpback whale snapped during New York City harbour visit

The giant marine mammal was pictured in front of the Statue of Liberty during a rare appearance.

Dad steps in to sing national anthem when it fails to play at son's basketball game

When the US national anthem failed to play at his son's basketball match, this dad saved the day.

Covid-19: How everyday life has changed in Wuhan