Abounding Opportunities

The social media giant is preparing for a new law that would force it to pay publishers for news articles.

BTS: K-pop group reacts with 'tears' after making Billboard history

The group's first ever English single has made history as a Billboard Hot 100 chart topper.

JEE: India holds crucial college exam amid Covid-19 fears

A hugely competitive college exam in India kicks off after weeks of heavy protest from students.

Bella Thorne, OnlyFans and the battle over monetising content

Content creators say OnlyFans has slashed incomes by placing caps on prices charged on the platform.

Saudi king sacks defence officials

Six men, including two princes, are arrested as part of the country's latest anti-corruption drive.

Trump defends supporters accused in deadly clashes

The US president suggests right-wing activists in Wisconsin and Oregon acted in self-defence.

Hundreds of migrants still dying in Med five years since 2015

Five years on from the migrant crisis of 2015 hundreds are still dying in the Mediterranean.

Still ill with coronavirus six months later: 'I have no idea how to get better'

For some people Covid just will not go away – one woman’s Instagram diary of her long-haul illness.

Rival powers jockey for the lead in hypersonic aircraft

The US, China and Russia are pouring money into aircraft that can fly at five times the speed of sound.

Prashant Bhushan: India finds an unlikely hero in lawyer-activist

Prashant Bhushan refused to apologise to the Supreme Court and got a symbolic one-rupee fine.

Zoom revenues skyrocket as profits double

The popular video conferencing app has seen a 458% jump in customer growth compared with last year.

Ron Jeremy: Adult star faces more rape and sexual assault charges

The 67-year-old, one of the biggest pornography stars, is accused of attacking a total of 17 women.

Rohingya crisis: Growing up in the world's largest refugee camp

Nayeem, 3, is one of 20,000 children born every year in the camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh.

Why this black drive-in cinema is a big hit

Drive-ins are booming, of course. But this one is also responding to the other big story of the year.

Coronavirus: Tango competitors take to the living room floor

The Buenos Aires World Tango Championship took place online because of the coronavirus pandemic.

US election: Biden accuses 'weak' Trump of stoking violence

His comments come as the rival candidates clash over unrest in Portland, where a man was shot dead.

Coronavirus: US passes six million Covid-19 cases

More than 183,000 people in the US have now died, almost a quarter of the world's Covid-19 tally.

Trudeau condemns toppling of Canada's first PM as 'vandalism'

The statue of Canada's first PM, Sir John A Macdonald, was pulled down by activists over the weekend.

Europe's migrant crisis: Is Greece still a gateway to Europe?

Migrant numbers are rising again, but Greece does not want to be seen as a gateway to Europe.

Cheng Lei: Australian anchor on Chinese TV detained in China

Cheng Lei, an Australian citizen, worked as a news presenter for government run CGTN in Beijing.

Pranab Mukherjee: Former president of India dies after Covid diagnosis

Pranab Mukherjee had a long political career and also served on the boards of IMF and World Bank.

Yegor Zhukov: Leading Russian opposition blogger beaten up

Yegor Zhukov, who is critical of President Putin, narrowly avoided prison last year.

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya: Belarus opposition leader 'to address UN Security Council'

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya will reportedly brief the Security Council on Friday as protests continue.

French magazine condemned for showing MP Danièle Obono as slave

A right-wing magazine accused of racism apologises to black socialist MP Danièle Obono.

Paul Rusesabagina: Hotel Rwanda film hero arrested

Paul Rusesabagina's efforts to save people during the Rwanda genocide was depicted in a film.

Covid: Venezuela seeks testers for Russian vaccine

President Nicolás Maduro, a close ally of Russia's, will ask for volunteers in the coming days.

China launches second Australian wine probe amid tensions

Australia has denied allegations of subsidising or dumping wines in China, as bilateral tensions grow.

India accuses China of 'border violation'

China is yet react to the allegation which comes after several rounds of peace talks.

Israel and UAE set for historic direct flight following peace deal

The first commercial flight marks a major step in normalising ties between the two countries.

Norway bunker partygoers poisoned with carbon monoxide

More than 20 people were hospitalised after attending the party in the Norwegian capital Oslo.

Europe's migrant crisis: The year that changed a continent

More than a million people arrived in Europe in 2015. Five years on, we reflect on what's changed.

The search engine boss who wants to help us all plant trees

Christian Kroll is the boss of Ecosia, which donates 80% of its profits to tree-planting projects.

Letter from Africa: Why Kenyans are no longer cheering their constitution

It is a time of reflection 10 years after the country was promised a rebirth, writes Waihiga Mwaura.

Belarus protest: Dozens arrested at mass rally

The country's been gripped by mass protests since the August election, widely thought to have been rigged.

Mauritius oil spill: 'We want to protect our island'

Young locals are helping to prevent environmental damage after an oil leak from a ship that ran aground.

Coronavirus: India surpasses US for highest single-day rise in Covid-19 cases

The 78,761 new cases reported on Sunday is the largest number for a day anywhere in the world.

Portland clashes: Chad Wolf blames city Democrat officials over street 'chaos'

Acting US homeland security secretary says politicians have let protests turn into "lawlessness and chaos".

Chadwick Boseman: Black Panther director Ryan Coogler pays emotional tribute

"The ancestors spoke through him," says Ryan Coogler in a long and loving tribute to the star.

Lebanon: Mustapha Adib front-runner for PM after Beirut blast

The government quit this month following an explosion in the capital that killed at least 200 people.

Alaphilippe wins Tour de France stage in sprint

Frenchman Julian Alaphilippe wins stage two of the Tour de France to claim the yellow jersey in Nice.

Girl thrown into air by kite in Taiwan

The three-year-old escaped with minor injuries after being lifted into the air by a gust of wind.

Chess Olympiad: India and Russia both get gold after controversial final

India is declared joint winner with Russia after two players lost connection during the final round.

Lionel Messi: Barcelona forward's release clause remains valid, says La Liga

The 700m euros (£624m) release clause in Lionel Messi's Barcelona contract is still valid, says La Liga.

French spying: Senior army officer investigated

The officer is stationed with Nato in Italy and is suspected of spying for Russia, sources say.

Woman arrested for naked video on India's Lakshman Jhula bridge

The woman faces charges under India's internet law over the incident on the Lakshman Jhula bridge.

Split emerges among top male tennis players

Novak Djokovic quits as president of the ATP player council to front a new association aiming to increase the power of the players.

Germany coronavirus: Anger after attempt to storm parliament

Far-right activists broke away from a large protest in Berlin against coronavirus restrictions.

Belarus: Heavy security for anti-Lukashenko rally in Minsk

Riot police cordon off the main square in the centre of Minsk as columns of people march towards it.

Montenegro election: Long-ruling party faces tough challenge

An alliance of opposition parties wants the country to have closer ties with Serbia and Russia.

Portland clashes: Fatal shooting as protesters clash

One person has been shot dead in Oregon as a large procession of supporters of President Trump clashed with Black Lives Matter protesters in Portland.

Portland clashes: Fatal shooting as rival groups protest

A pro-Trump procession was met by counter-protesters in another tense night in the Oregon city.

Canada statue of John A MacDonald toppled by activists in Montreal

John A MacDonald was accused of letting famine and disease decimate indigenous Canadian communities.

US election 2020: Intelligence chief ends face-to-face security meetings

Democrats cry foul over the move, saying the public had a right to know about foreign interference.

Jacob Blake: Donald Trump to visit Kenosha amid unrest

The president is due to visit the city of Kenosha on Tuesday to meet local police.

Chadwick Boseman: Tributes pour in for Black Panther actor

Celebrities, civil rights activists and fans share what the actor's life and work mean to them.

Fire breaks out in Madrid tower block

More than 20 teams of fightfighers helped bring the blaze under control.

Germany coronavirus: 'Anti-corona' protest in Berlin draws thousands

The protesters, who say Germany's restrictions are "anti-freedom", did not observe social distancing.

Migrant rescue: UN urges help for Banksy ship and two others in Mediterranean

Some 400 rescued migrants on three ships in the Mediterranean must be allowed to disembark, it says.

Mauritius oil spill: Thousands march in Port Louis

Massive amounts of oil spilled into a wildlife sanctuary, and 39 dead dolphins have been discovered.

Hurricane Laura: 400,000 without power in Louisiana

As the clean-up from Hurricane Laura begins, up to 400,000 Louisiana residents remain without power.

Belarus: Journalists covering protests stripped of accreditation

Journalists reporting for the BBC's Russian service are among those to lose their accreditation.

US Open 2020 preview: Serena Williams, Andy Murray & Novak Djokovic head Grand Slam return

For the first time since the world was gripped by coronavirus, one of the four major tournaments is taking place when the US Open starts on Monday.

Protest against Koran-burning turns violent in Sweden

Some 300 people clashed with police in Malmo, after far-right extremists burned a Koran.

Tito Mboweni: South Africa's finance minster known for a Twitter roast chicken fail

South Africa's Tito Mboweni is fearless on Twitter, rowing with officials and sharing cooking skills.

Neuralink: Elon Musk unveils pig with chip in its brain

Gertrude the pig is a prototype of a brain-to-machine interface.

Nathaniel Julius: South Africa police arrested for killing teen

Nathaniel Julius, who had Down's syndrome, was out to buy biscuits when he got shot, his family says.

Mercy Beguma's family cancels memorial service

The father of a Ugandan woman found dead in Glasgow says the family is awaiting more information about her death.

Chadwick Boseman: How Black Panther inspired children and adults

Chadwick Boseman and the Black Panther film helped many find their inner superhero.

Chadwick Boseman: Five things to know about the Black Panther star

US actor Chadwick Boseman, best known for playing Black Panther in the hit Marvel superhero franchise, has died of cancer aged 43.

March on Washington 2020: 'Change is slow in America'

The BBC spoke to attendees at the March on Washington 2020 to see how far the country has come.

Chadwick Boseman: Black Panther star dies of cancer aged 43

US actor Chadwick Boseman, best known for his role in Black Panther, has died of cancer, his family say

Coronavirus: Children's role in spread puzzles scientists

A study from South Korea gives among the clearest pictures yet of children as carriers of the virus.

Hurricane Laura death toll climbs to 14 in the US

Fourteen people are now confirmed dead in the US after Hurricane Laura battered two states.

Amazon fires: Are they worse this year than before?

Blazes are continuing to rage in the Amazon rainforest, despite the Brazilian president's fire ban.

Cloud gaming: Are game streaming services bad for the planet?

Remote streaming services may be the future but could cause a sharp rise in emissions, a study shows.

Week in pictures: 22-28 August 2020

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

Bihar: Destroyed lives and submerged homes in flood-hit India

Homes and livelihoods have been swept away by monsoon rains in India's Bihar state.

Shinzo Abe: Revisionist nationalist or pragmatic realist?

Commentators are divided on the achievements of Japan's longest serving post-war prime minister.

Uganda lightning strike kills 10 children playing football in Arua

The children were playing football when heavy rains forced them to take shelter in a grass-thatched hut.

Jacob Blake handcuffed to his hospital bed, family say

The African-American has been left paralysed after being shot in the back by police in Wisconsin.

March on Washington: Thousands expected at historic civil rights march

Families of black Americans who were injured or killed by police will speak at the historic march.

Polar bear kills man in Norway's Arctic Svalbard islands

The bear is shot dead after a foreign national is attacked in a campsite near Longyearbye.

Frankfurt rail attack: Boy's killer given life in psychiatric ward

The eight-year-old and his mother were pushed into the path of a train at Frankfurt station.

Coronavirus: Getting a flying fix without going abroad

With the coronavirus impacting international air travel, there are ways to get a flying fix.

Shinzo Abe: Japan's hawkish PM known for 'Abenomics'

As Japan's longest-serving PM, Shinzo Abe tried to stimulate its economy and drop a pacifist stance.

NFL club Baltimore Ravens promise to 'drive change now'

NFL side the Baltimore Ravens say the United States must tackle racism "head-on" and promise to use their platform to "drive change now".

JK Rowling returns award after Kerry Kennedy criticism

The author has given back a gong associated with the US Kennedy family, as the gender row continues.

Karachi floods: Pakistan's biggest city hit by record rain and heavy floods

Pakistan is seeing the worst monsoon rain on record and Karachi has been hit by devastating flooding.

R. Kelly was 'attacked in jail', says his lawyer

The R&B singer was said to be sitting on his bed when a fellow inmate assaulted him.

Trump speech: President lays out re-election agenda

President Trump spoke for a record breaking 70 minutes - and set out what he would do if he wins a second term.

Hurricane Laura slams Louisiana and Texas

The category four storm was one of the strongest to ever hit the region before it was downgraded.

Trump’s speech: From ‘criteria met’ to ‘falsehoods and lies’

This is what happened when four strangers came together to watch President Trump's address.

Shinzo Abe, Japan's PM, to resign for health reasons

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is set to resign for health reasons, officials from his party say.

RNC 2020: Trump warns Biden will 'demolish' American dream

Addressing his party convention, the president lashed his opponent as "the destroyer of American greatness".

UAE implicated in lethal drone strike in Libya

BBC finds evidence that a UAE drone killed 26 unarmed cadets in Libya’s capital Tripoli.

Melbourne storm: Three killed as winds cause widespread damage

A four-year-old boy is among the victims as a storm fells trees and contaminates drinking water.

NZ takes action over stock market cyber attacks

The comments from New Zealand's finance minister come after trading was hit for the fourth day in a row.

Tough times to continue for Chinese firms in the US

It doesn't matter if Trump or Biden wins, the anti-Chinese sentiment will remain on the White House agenda.

Kyle Rittenhouse charged over Wisconsin protest deaths

Kyle Rittenhouse is charged with killing two people and injuring another amid protests in Kenosha.

Delhi 2020 religious riots: Amnesty International accuses police of rights abuses

Amnesty International finds police beat protesters and rioted with Hindu mobs against Muslims.

Putin says he could send police to Belarus if necessary

The Russian president says he has a police force for Belarus if unrest there "gets out of control".

Syria war: Russian and US military vehicles collide

A video shows a Russian vehicle ramming a US armoured car in the desert.

Who is the teen accused of the Wisconsin protest murders?

The suspect fired his gun on a night when armed militias clashed with Black Lives Matter protests.

Apple Fortnite players left behind in new update

The new season of Epic's popular game does not - and will not - appear on any Apple devices.

Hurricane Laura makes landfall in Louisiana

Hurricane Laura makes landfall shortly after midnight local time (05:00 GMT) near the district of Cameron, in Louisiana.

Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom announce birth of first child Daisy Dove Bloom

The couple said they were "floating with love and wonder" after the arrival of Daisy Dove Bloom.

West Mathewson: South African conservationist killed by white lions

Police say two lions attacked the lodge owner as he was taking them for a walk, in front of his wife.

Hurricane Laura causes flash flooding as it makes landfall in Louisiana

The category four storm is expected to cause an "unsurvivable" surge as it moves inland in the US.

Naomi Osaka leaves WTA tournament over Blake shooting

The WTA New York tournament is suspended after Osaka withdraws in a protest over US police violence.

Tanya Day: Aboriginal death in custody decision 'devastates' relatives

Tanya Day's relatives say police should be prosecuted over her preventable death in custody.

TikTok boss quits as Trump's ban looms

Kevin Mayer is leaving the video-sharing app at the centre of controversy amid US-China tensions.

RNC 2020: Pence warns Americans 'won't be safe' if Biden wins

The US vice-president depicts November's vote as a choice between law-and-order and lawlessness.

India coronavirus: Covid strikes remote Greater Andamanese tribe

There are just 53 members of the Greater Andamanese tribe left- four test positive for the virus.

Coronavirus: Vaccine front-runner China already inoculating workers

Chinese health officials say they used emergency powers to secretly test unapproved vaccines.

Brenton Tarrant: Christchurch gunman given life term without parole

The judge called the actions of a man who murdered 51 people in two mosques in New Zealand last year "inhuman".

NBA, MLB and MLS postpone games after Milwaukee Bucks' walkout over Jacob Blake shooting

After Milwaukee Bucks cancelled a fixture over shooting of Jacob Blake, other basketball, football, tennis and soccer players follow suit.

Jacob Blake: Police officer in Kenosha shooting named

Wisconsin's attorney general names the officer who shot Jacob Blake seven times in the back.

Trump challenges Biden to drug test before debate

The president claims Mr Biden went from incoherent to articulate in a previous debate.

Caged Congolese man: Why a zoo took 114 years to apologise

Ota Benga was kidnapped from what is now DR Congo in 1904 and taken to the US to be exhibited.

India NEET, JEE exams: 'Conducting these exams will be a giant mistake'

Indian students are demanding that competitive college exams be postponed due to the pandemic.

Why Navalny’s team sees Kremlin's hands in attack

Activists do not doubt the Russian opposition figure was targeted for his political work.

Blueberry farmers warn of 'disaster' crop

Wild blueberry farmers in the US state of Maine are now facing numerous challenges.

Eusebio Leal: The man who saved Old Havana from decay

Historian Eusebio Leal died last month but his legacy is far-reaching in the city he loved.

Iran to grant IAEA inspectors access to suspected ex-nuclear sites

The global watchdog has been concerned about what happened at two suspected ex-nuclear sites.

Missing teen 'possibly alive amid first searches'

An inquest in Malaysia hears police had already combed the site where Nóra Quoirin's body was found.

Mauritius oil spill: Dead dolphins found after shipwreck

The discovery of 13 dead dolphins causes much sadness and anger among locals.

Iran nuclear deal: UN rejects US bid to 'snapback' Iran sanctions

The US envoy accuses other Security Council members of "standing in the company of terrorists".

In pictures: Mexico school classes resume on TV

With many families having no access to the internet, lessons are being taught via TV.

Afghanistan: Deadly flash floods kill dozens, damage homes

The flash flooding hit the northern city of Charikar as people were sleeping.

Jacob Blake: 'Three shot' during third night of Wisconsin unrest

People are protesting in Kenosha, Wisconsin, over the police shooting of 29-year-old Jacob Blake.

Srebrenica: Ratko Mladic to address appeal judges directly

The former Bosnian Serb commander is appealing against his conviction for genocide over Srebrenica.

Plane built on Mumbai rooftop takes to the skies

No one believed pilot Amol Yadav when he told them his plans, but he proved them wrong.

Christchurch shooting: Grief, defiance as victims confront gunman

Almost 100 survivors and relatives of victims confronted Australian gunman Brenton Tarrant.

Usain Bolt: Jamaican sprinter tests positive for coronavirus

Jamaica's eight-time Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt tests positive for coronavirus, his agent confirms.

Kim Jong-un warns over North Korea typhoon and coronavirus

Despite rumours over his health, the North Korean leaders appears well and in charge.

RNC 2020: What young Republicans think of Trump

The BBC spoke to young Republicans in the lead-up to the 2020 presidential election.

Jacob Blake shooting: 'I'm not sad. I'm not sorry. I'm angry'

Jacob Blake's sister says that she is numb after years of seeing black people shot by police.

Hong Kong pro-democracy lawmakers arrested over Yuen Long

One is accused of rioting, over the 2019 incident which saw protesters attacked at Yuen Long station.

China's mighty Ant heads for a mega market debut

Little known in the west, China's dominant mobile payment firm is tipped for the world's biggest IPO.

Topless sunbathing defended by French interior minister

Gérald Darmanin tweets his support after police asked women relaxing on a beach to cover up.

RNC 2020: Melania Trump to take centre stage on second night

The party conference's second night will also hear from presidential children Eric and Tiffany Trump.

Fears of a serial killer in South African farm community

A farming community in South Africa is reeling after the bodies of five women were recently discovered.

Carnival and coronavouchers: Brazil’s economic struggles

The disruption caused by coronavirus means that Brazil's samba schools now face an uncertain future.

Mike Pence at RNC 2020: The rare times he made headlines

The vice-president has largely stayed out of the limelight. We take a look at the few times he didn't.

US Postal Service: Three states sue Trump government

Hawaii, New Jersey and New York are suing the Trump administration over alleged "partisan meddling".

Navalny and Russia’s arsenal of exotic poisons

Nerve agent was apparently used on Putin critic Alexei Navalny – and Russia has a history of poisonings.

American Airlines to cut 19,000 jobs as travel falls

The world's top airline will have 30% fewer staff by October amid a slump in demand for air travel.

Gulf storms: Laura upgraded to hurricane as it heads towards US

Storms Laura and Marco have already ripped through the Caribbean, killing at least 20 people.

Greta Thunberg: What she did during her year-long school break

The 17-year-old has gone back to education after a year of climate change activism.

Jacob Blake: Father says man shot in Wisconsin is 'paralysed'

Jacob Blake is in hospital after being shot multiple times by officers in Wisconsin on Sunday.

US election: Do postal ballots lead to voting fraud?

President Trump says postal ballots lead to widespread fraud - but what evidence is there?

Alexei Navalny: Kremlin dismisses accusations against Putin

Russia says no investigation is needed yet as no poisoning of the fierce critic has been proven.

Saba Sahar: Afghan actress and film director shot in Kabul

Saba Sahar, an outspoken voice on women's rights, was going to work when a gunman shot at her car.

Mike Pompeo lands in Sudan after 'historic' flight

The visit comes as the Secretary of State urged more Arab states to make a peace deal with Israel.

KFC drops Finger Lickin' Good slogan amid coronavirus

The fast food giant says the slogan will be paused as it "doesn't quite fit" during the pandemic.

Bosnian war: Ratko Mladic appeals against genocide conviction

Ratko Mladic led forces during the 1990s Bosnian war and was jailed for life in 2017.

Covid-19: South Korea closes Seoul schools amid rise in cases

Almost all students in the greater Seoul area, home to 25 million people, will now take classes online.

Coronavirus restrictions 'severely hampering' South Asia flood relief

Humanitarian agencies warn that coronavirus restrictions are slowing down Monsoon relief efforts.

Africa to be declared free of wild polio in 'milestone'

Nigeria is now rid of wild polio having had more than half of global cases less than 10 years ago.

Coronavirus: Bali closed to foreign tourists until end of 2020

The Indonesian island scraps plans to open up to foreigners next month, over virus concerns.

Australia fires: Similar or worse disasters 'will happen again'

After a disaster "not seen in Australia in recorded history", an inquiry makes dozens of recommendations.

RNC 2020: Black speakers praise Trump and reject Democrats

A series of African-American speakers reject Democratic claims that President Trump is racist.

Facebook blocks Thai access to group critical of monarchy

The social media giant is preparing legal action to challenge Bangkok's pressure to block the group.

Trump: US and China hold 'constructive' trade talks after delay

President Trump had previously postponed the trade meeting as he didn't "want to talk to China right now."

Coronavirus: Dr Anthony Fauci warns against rushing out vaccine

US President Donald Trump reportedly is considering skipping regulatory steps to get out a vaccine.

Republican National Convention: Trump warns of 'rigged election'

He opens the Republican conference with disputed claims mail-in ballots could lead to voter fraud.

Brazil footballer Ronaldinho released in Paraguay

A judge in Paraguay releases the footballer after his detention for a forged passport.

Hong Kong protest singers fear for their future

Has the new national security law pulled the plug on Hong Kong's pro-democracy musicians?

Coronavirus in Kenya: How it turned classrooms into chicken coops

Some Kenyan private schools have found new sources of income after they were forced to close.

Pompeo urges more Arab states to make peace with Israel

The US secretary of state expresses hope to see other nations follow the United Arab Emirates.

Sudan's Jabal Maragha: Illegal gold diggers destroy ancient site

The 2,000-year-old Jabal Maragha site was thought to have been a small settlement or a checkpoint.

Facebook agrees to pay France €106m in back taxes

The social networking giant has also agreed to pay France 50% more tax for 2020.

Brazilians back reporter whom Bolsonaro 'felt like punching'

Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro told a reporter he "felt like covering your face in punches".

Man who believed virus was hoax loses wife to Covid-19

A couple from Florida did not follow health guidelines after believing lies about the virus online.

Alexei Navalny: Putin critic 'probably poisoned' - doctors

The Russian opposition figure is being treated in Berlin after falling ill on a flight on Thursday.

Tito Mboweni: South Africa's president lambasts minister over Zambia tweets

Tito Mboweni caused a diplomatic incident by telling Zambia's president "hell is on its way".

Danish military intelligence head Lars Findsen suspended

Lars Findsen and two members of staff are suspended after claims of rule-breaking in the agency.

Kenosha shooting: US police shooting of black man sparks protests

Protests have erupted in the US state of Wisconsin after police shot a black man many times in the back.

Israeli youths unearth 1,100-year-old gold coins from Abbasid era

Volunteers at an archaeological dig find 425 coins, enough to buy a mansion when they were buried.

Belarus detains opposition figures after Minsk mass rally

The latest detentions come amid a border row with neighbouring Lithuania.

Trump's postal-vote tweet misleading, says Twitter

The platform flagged the president's tweet and said it could "dissuade voters".

BTS's Dynamite smashes YouTube records and heads for UK number one

Dynamite is the first video in YouTube history to gain over 100 million views in a 24-hour period.

Kellyanne Conway: Key moments from her White House career

The president's adviser has announced she is stepping down from her role at the end of August.

South Korea on brink of nationwide virus outbreak, officials warn

The country held up as a model for its response to Covid-19 is facing a dangerous new surge.

Sonia Gandhi to step down as leader of India's Congress party

She has asked the Congress party to elect a new leader following a letter by a group of dissidents.

Police make 148 arrests after clashes following PSG Champions League defeat

French police made 148 arrests following riots in the capital after Paris St-Germain's 1-0 defeat by Bayern Munich in the Champions League final.

Wisconsin: Protests erupt after police shoot black man

A curfew is imposed on the city of Kenosha in the US state, after the man is seriously injured.

Nóra Quoirin: Malaysia opens inquest into death of London teenager

The 15-year-old vanished from her room during a family holiday last year at a Malaysian resort.

Kellyanne Conway resigns as senior White House adviser

Ms Conway says she is stepping down at the end of August to give her children "less drama, more mama".

Rio Tinto bosses lose bonuses over Aboriginal cave destruction

Executives at the mining giant Rio Tinto have had their payouts cut over the culturally important site.

US approves use of blood plasma treatment on coronavirus patients

The move comes after Donald Trump accused regulators of impeding the development of a Covid-19 cure.

Thousands evacuated as two storms head for southern US

Hurricane Marco and Tropical Storm Laura are both expected to hit the southern US coast days apart.

North Korea propaganda: New faces but old messages

Pyongyang is believed to be behind several new YouTube and Twitter accounts aimed at foreign audiences.

EU trade commissioner apologises for attending golf dinner

Phil Hogan says his attendance at the event with 80 people had "touched a nerve".

Eilat rape allegations: Tel Aviv covers over Peeping Toms beach mural

The Israeli city paints over an old mural amid heightened awareness of sexual violence against women.

Belarus opposition holds mass rally in Minsk despite ban

Tens of thousands gather in Minsk, as pressure on President Lukashenko shows no sign of easing.

California wildfires seen from a plane as Trump declares major disaster

US President Donald Trump has declared a major disaster and released federal aid.

Donald Trump's sister says he's an 'unprincipled phoney'

Recordings reveal Maryanne Trump Barry, a former federal judge, saying her brother "has no principles".

Iran plane crash: Cockpit exchange recorded after missile hit Ukraine jet

All 176 people aboard a Ukrainian plane were killed when it was mistakenly downed by Iran in January.

Thomas Restobar Club: Crush kills 13 as Peru police raid party violating lockdown

The crush happens as revellers try to leave a nightclub in the capital Lima.

Christchurch mosque gunman Brenton Tarrant faces sentencing hearing

Brenton Tarrant has admitted killing 51 people and wounding dozens more at two New Zealand mosques.

Miroslava Breach murder: Mexico jails man who ordered journalist's death

The man who ordered the killing of Miroslava Breach in 2017 receives rare 50-year sentence.

California wildfires: Trump declares major disaster

One fire tearing through the state is the third largest California has ever seen.

TikTok launches legal action against Trump over ban

President Donald Trump ordered Americans to stop doing business with the popular Chinese video app.

Coronavirus: Is the US the worst-hit country for deaths?

President Trump says the death rate in the US is lower than elsewhere - what does the data show?

Coronavirus: Croatia's culture capital Rijeka tries to salvage year

The cheers had barely died down after Rijeka's opening ceremony when the pandemic struck.

US trans rights: The teen who sued his school, and won, over bathroom use

Drew Adams, a US trans man, has won a court battle against his school to use the male bathrooms.

Why a Somali-born fighter is being honoured in Rome

Some Italians are revaluating their colonial past in East Africa, writes Ismail Einashe.

Coronavirus vaccine: Short cuts and allegations of dirty tricks in race to be first

Russia, China, the US and UK see a vaccine as a projection of their scientific prowess.

'It's a scary time for stand-up comedians'

Edinburgh Festival Fringe acts are making the best of a bad situation online, but for how long?

Death Valley: What life is like in the 'hottest place on Earth'

The Death Valley just saw one of the highest temperatures ever recorded on Earth - 130F (54.4C)

Mpape Crushed Rock: Nigerians flock to new Abuja beauty spot

Nigeria's Mpape Crushed Rock is an unlikely tourist sensation for fun-seekers near the capital, Abuja.

The two students who took on Coke and Pepsi

German friends Mirco Wiegert and Lorenz Hampl launched best-selling Fritz-Kola in 2003.

Christchurch mosque attacks: 'I'm close to forgiving, but not there yet'

The wife of a man killed in the Christchurch attacks is preparing to attend the gunman's sentencing.

Belarus: What lies behind the protests?

Mass strikes and protests have been continuing in Belarus, following disputed elections on 9 August.

US Postal Service: House agrees election cash boost

Democrats fear cost-cutting measures will hamper mail-in voting - a key issue in November's election.

Belarus protests: Mum's search for detained teenage poll observer

Darina, 19, was seized while monitoring voting in the disputed election. Her mum couldn't find her.

China-US comedians: 'We hope jokes travel faster than the virus’

Comedians Jesse Appell in the United States and Tony Chou in China caught up online during the pandemic.

Beirut glass artist's years of work shattered

Many of Beirut's painstakingly restored stained glass windows were destroyed in moments in the massive blast.

Belarus: Nato rejects claim that foreign troops are on border

The embattled Belarusian president says foreign powers are amassing troops to threaten his country.

Coronavirus pandemic: Masks should be worn from the age of 12 - WHO

The UN health body says there is some evidence teenagers can infect others in the same way as adults.

Masked Singer Australia suspended after seven crew test positive for Covid-19

The Australian version's entire production team, including celebrities, are now in self-isolation.

Oradour-sur-Glane: France's best-known Nazi massacre site vandalised

President Macron condemns the "unspeakable" act at Oradour-sur-Glane, where 642 people were killed.

Fredie Blom: 'World's oldest man' dies aged 116 in South Africa

Fredie Blom's identity documents showed he was born in 1904, although his record was never verified.

Coronavirus: Germany puts on crowded 'study concerts' with Tim Bendzko

Scientists are using Saturday's three concerts to explore ways of holding mass indoor events safely.

ICYMI: Leopard cubs in unlikely places and baby pandas

Baby pandas, leopard cubs and Europe's biggest mural. Some of the stories you may have missed this week.

Iraqi activist killing: Why are so many being targeted?

Riham Yaqoob was the face of many local anti-government protests, why are activists being targeted?

Golden State Killer sentenced: Survivors welcome life jail term

Survivors of the crimes of Joseph DeAngelo, known as the Golden State Killer, welcome his life prison sentence.

Red Hot Chilli Peppers: Guitarist Jack Sherman dies aged 64

Jack Sherman, who joined the band for their first album and first US tour, is described as "unique".

Belarus unrest: Opposition leader says Belarusian people must not stop now

In an exclusive interview with the BBC, the Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya said the people must continue fighting.

Alexei Navalny: Putin critic taken to airport for flight to Germany

The Russian opposition activist is being flown to Berlin for treatment, after falling ill in Siberia.

Belgium custody death: 'Shocked' police chief steps aside

Belgian boss André Desenfants says he is deeply moved by a video of a Slovak man pinned in a cell.

Singer Mika on raising money for Lebanon

Mika, born in Beirut, is hosting a virtual concert to raise money for Lebanon after the the devastating explosion.

Japanese airline ANA trials germ-busting 'elbow doorknob'

Airplane toilets may have a reputation for being a germ haven, but ANA is hoping to change that.

Mali's coup is cheered at home but upsets neighbours

Crowds cheered the ousting of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta but regional allies are not happy.

Libya crisis: Rival authorities announce ceasefire

The announcement for a nation riven by violence since 2011 is hailed by the UN.

Irish Agriculture Minister Dara Calleary resigns for attending golf dinner

Dara Calleary had been in post for a month after Barry Cowen was sacked over a drink-driving scandal.

Brexit: UK-EU trade deal 'seems unlikely' says Michel Barnier

The bloc's negotiator says talks are "going backwards" as the UK says "little progress" has been made.

Belarus strikes must continue and grow, opposition leader says

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya's plea comes as allies are being questioned by prosecutors.

China floods: World's biggest dam nears capacity

Record floods hit China's Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River with millions of people affected.

Voter panel reacts to Joe Biden's speech

A Trump voter and three Biden voters watched the former vice-president's nomination speech together.

Brayden Harrington: Joe Biden and the boy with the stutter

Teenager Brayden Harrington delivers the "speech of the night" at the Democratic convention.

Kansas City Chiefs ban fans from wearing headdresses and face paint

Kansas City Chiefs ban fans from wearing headdresses or face paint that "appropriates American Indian cultures" at their home stadium.

Veep star mixes politics and comedy at convention

The Veep star and host of Joe Biden's convention night poked fun at President Trump - but was she funny?

Alibaba tells Trump we 'support American brands'

The comments from the online retail giant's boss come as the firm saw sales jump in the wake of the pandemic.

Singing 'no riskier than talking' for virus spread

It does not produce many more respiratory particles than speaking at similar volume, a study finds.

News publishers fight tech giants for better deals

Apple and Google face pressure from news providers who want a greater share of revenue for their content.

Evo Morales: Exiled Bolivian ex-president accused of rape

Bolivia's former leader has not commented on the allegations of rape and human trafficking.

DNC 2020: We will overcome this season of darkness - Joe Biden

Joe Biden accepts the nomination for president at the Democratic National Convention.

DNC 2020: Biden depicts election as battle of light and darkness

The former US vice-president said his rival has unleashed "too much fear, too much division".

Alexei Navalny: Plane to bring 'poisoned' Russian critic to Germany

Opposition figure Alexei Navalny is in a coma in a Siberian hospital after falling ill on a plane.

Coronavirus: Youthful Pakistan appears to avoid worst of pandemic

Testing in Pakistan has been low, but the country seems to have suffered less than its neighbours.

Coronavirus: Why Spain is seeing second wave

Spain has Europe's fastest-rising caseload two months after it lifted one of the strictest lockdowns.

Africa's week in pictures: 14-20 August 2020

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

Nigerian ballet dancer Anthony Mmesoma Madu gets scholarship following viral video

An 11-year-old Nigerian boy, whose ballet dancing in the rain went viral, is offered a scholarship in the US.

Israel investigates alleged Eilat gang rape of teenager

PM Netanyahu demands justice amid allegations that a 16-year-old girl was raped by more than 30 men.

Steve Bannon charged with fraud over Mexico wall funds

Ex-Trump adviser Steve Bannon is charged with fraud over the campaign to build a Mexican border wall.

'Mummified' plants give glimpse of Earth's future

Fossilised leaves suggest some plants may adapt to grow more quickly as CO2 levels rise.

Belarus opens criminal case against opposition leaders

The chief prosecutor accuses the opposition's Coordination Council of trying to seize power.

Kim Jong-un gives sister Yo-jong 'more responsibilities'

Kim Yo-jong has reportedly been given responsibility for North Korean policy towards the US.

China clamps down on over-eating influencers

The Chinese government is waging war on the eating influencers.

Female Iraqi activist killed in Basra as gunmen target protesters

The killing of Riham Yaqoob was the third such attack on local anti-government protesters in a week.

Sachin Tendulkar: India cricket legend asks fans to find his first car

The Indian cricket legend says he misses his Maruti 800 and 'would like to get it back'.

Breast cancer: One-dose radiotherapy 'as effective as full course'

A University College London study followed more than 2,000 women for five years after the treatment.

Thom Brennaman: Cincinnati Reds suspend broadcaster for homophobic slur

The Cincinnati Reds baseball team suspend commentator Thom Brennaman after he broadcasted a homophobic comment that he believed was off air.

Kamala Harris speech: What was the verdict on how she did?

The California senator made history to formally accept the Democratic VP nomination. How did she do?

Obama and top Democrats go after Donald Trump

On a night that crowned the vice-presidential nominee, the party had choice words for the commander-in-chief.

Jessie and Austin: The Bodies in the Suitcase

TikTok: Viral video of murder victims stays up, despite the family’s request.

QAnon: Trump lauds bizarre conspiracy theory

The president said he did not know much about the online group, except that its adherents like him.

DNC 2020: Kamala Harris savages Trump 'failure of leadership'

The California senator says the Republican leader "turns our tragedies into political weapons".

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny 'poisoned'

Alexei Navalny is unconscious in hospital after falling ill on a flight, his spokeswoman says.

Anthony Horowitz: 'I feel the need to do the unexpected'

The prolific novelist's latest work is a mind-bending murder mystery to tie readers in knots.

Hong Kong: US suspends extradition treaty over national security law

Three treaties between the US and Hong Kong were suspended, the latest move to pressure China.

Kamala Harris: at DNC 2020: There is no vaccine for racism

The Democratic vice-presidential candidate Kamala Harris speaks at the Democratic National Convention.

Anon Nampa: Thai lawyer arrested over monarchy protest

Anon Nampa has been a leading figure in unprecedented calls for reform of the powerful institution.

Calls for new inquiry into Belgian police custody tragedy

New images show a police officer giving a Nazi salute while the Slovak man was pinned down on a bed.

Democratic convention: Obama to blast Trump's 'reality show'

Mr Obama depicts his successor as lazy and incompetent. Mr Trump says Mr Obama inflicted "horror" on the US.

Germany train incident: Eritrean on trial for boy's Frankfurt death

An eight-year-old boy was killed in the attack at Frankfurt's main railway station last July.

Mauritius oil spill: Satellite images show removal operation

Satellite images capture tug boats trying to remove the broken vessel, which spilled tonnes of oil.

US Postal Service: Democrats to press with bill despite U-turn on cutbacks

They will still fight for funding, despite cutbacks - decried as election interference - being dropped.

Berlin motorway crashes 'a possible terror attack'

Man rams several vehicles on a Berlin motorway in what prosecutors suspect was an Islamist-motivated attack

Cuba Gooding Jr accused of raping woman

The Oscar-winning actor is alleged to have assaulted the unnamed woman in New York in 2013.

Britney Spears asks court to remove dad's control over personal life

The singer's father Jamie has acted as her legal conservator for 12 years.

Mpape Crushed Rock: Nigerians flock to new Abuja beauty spot

Nigeria's Mpape Crushed Rock is an unlikely tourist sensation for fun-seekers near the capital, Abuja.

China record floods wet feet of Leshan Giant Buddha

More than 100,000 people are also evacuated as the worst flooding in decades hits the region.

Trump gives nod to Oracle buyout of TikTok in US

Oracle's chairman Larry Ellison is a supporter of the US president and held a fundraiser for him this year.

South Korea tightens Covid-19 curbs amid warning of new 'crisis'

Bars and museums in and around Seoul are closed amid warnings of an impending virus crisis.

Trump campaign Russia contacts were 'grave threat', says Senate report

A Republican-led Senate committee says the Trump campaign's Russia links were an intelligence threat.

Can Harry Potter magic tourists back to Japan?

Film studio Warner Bros hopes its new tourist attraction based on the boy wizard will be ready for 2023.

US Election 2020: Biden is crowned as Democratic nominee

Elder statesmen Bill Clinton, Colin Powell and John Kerry line up to endorse Mr Biden.

Chrystia Freeland named Canada's first female finance minister

The prime minister also announced he will suspend Parliament until 23 September.

Kamala Harris speech: Women who paved way for first black female VP hopeful

How would-be White House women have campaigned and reflected on their pioneering candidacies.

Death Valley: What life is like in the 'hottest place on Earth'

The Death Valley just saw one of the highest temperatures ever recorded on Earth - 130F (54.4C)

Belarus on the brink: What now?

After 26 years under President Lukashenko people in Belarus are demanding change.

Somali hotel raid: 'How I survived my fourth siege'

An ex-BBC journalist on his ordeal and how his friend was amongst the 20 people to die in the attack.

Coronavirus: Romance scams, the Yahoo boys and my friend Beth

Security experts warn there's been an increase in online fraud during the coronavirus pandemic

Broadway workers fight to stay afloat with theatres closed

Broadway theatres will be shut until 2021 leaving performers and crew jobless for nearly a year.

Iconic British music brand NME launches in Asia

The announcement comes as much of the global media industry is being forced to make significant cuts.

Mali's president resigns and dissolves parliament

Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta steps down, after being detained by soldiers, state TV reports

Beirut blast: Born without a father

Two weeks after the explosion that shattered Beirut, we meet families whose lives changed forever.

Coronavirus: France to make face masks mandatory in most workplaces

The new rule is set to apply to shared spaces in offices and factories and comes as infections rise.

Trump to pardon women's voting pioneer Susan B Anthony

The famous Suffragette was convicted by an all-male jury of illegally voting when women were barred.

Anger in Brazil as 10-year-old rape victim's name posted

The victim's personal details were published by an activist opposed to the girl having an abortion.

South Africa: Queues as ban on alcohol and cigarettes ends

For the first time in weeks cigarettes and alcohol sales are allowed as virus restrictions are eased.

Fans flock to save Berlin's cheeky wild boar

The boar that fled from a nudist now has thousands of campaigners looking to protect her.

Stars sign open letter supporting Polish LGBT rights

James Norton, Isabelle Huppert, and Margaret Atwood are among the signatories condemning repression.

Mauritius oil spill: Bad weather impedes clean-up

Rough seas make it too risky to clear the remaining oil from a ship that ran aground on a coral reef.

Missouri couple who pointed guns at BLM protesters 'to speak at Republican convention'

Mark and Patricia McCloskey were filmed pointing guns at racial justice demonstrators in June.

Lego hand comes out of boy's nose after two years

Samir Anwar was eating a muffin on a day out when he sneezed the 10 mm piece out of his nose.

Fountainstown Beach: Bioluminescent plankton light up Cork beach

Bioluminescent plankton light up the waves at Fountainstown Beach, just south of Cork City.

Wuhan coronavirus: From silent streets to packed pools

Images of crowds at a waterpark festival show how far the city has moved on from its January lockdown.

Pandit Jasraj: A ‘huge pillar of Indian music has fallen’

The vocalist died at his home in the US after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Democratic National Convention: What you missed on day one

Eva Longoria, Megan Rapinoe and Biden's singing grandchildren - how Democrats tried to hook the at-home audience.

Michelle Obama: Trump is 'wrong president' for US

Michelle Obama speaks at the 2020 Democratic National Convention.

Democratic convention: Trump clearly over his head - Michelle Obama

"Donald Trump is the wrong president for our country," says the ex-first lady in an emotional message.

Former CIA officer charged with spying for China

It is the latest espionage arrest at a time of growing tension between Washington and Beijing.

Trump dangles cash for US firms moving from China

The US president is enticing companies to move factories back to America while punishing those who don’t.

Ellen DeGeneres: Three producers fired over 'toxic workplace' claims

The departures follow allegations by former staff members of bullying, racism and sexual misconduct.

Bill Morneau: Canada finance minister quits amid charity probe

Bill Morneau denies his exit is linked to the ethics scandal that has ensnared both him and the PM.

US election 2020: The 19th amendment and a 100-year milestone for women

A hundred years after US women won the right to vote, female candidates reflect on what’s left to do.

With UAE deal, Israel opens tentative new chapter with Gulf Arabs

The UAE's decision to normalise relations with Israel is a gamble for the Gulf state, writes Frank Gardner.

Libya conflict: Why Egypt might send troops to back Gen Haftar

The fall of Col Gaddafi nine years ago unleased chaos in North Africa, which Egypt fears could spill over.

Microsoft Flight Simulator: The entire world in a game

The latest Flight Simulator title promises a near-perfect replica of the entire world.

Turkey's hidden domestic abuse: A survivor's story

Last year, more than 470 women in Turkey were killed by men they knew, according to campaigners.

Two men charged with 2002 murder of Run-DMC DJ Jam Master Jay

The murder of the successful hip hop trio's DJ in Queens, NY had been unsolved for nearly 18 years.

Barcelona sack manager after Bayern thrashing

Barcelona sack manager Quique Setien after his side's humiliating 8-2 defeat by Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

Major child sexual abuse trial begins in Germany

Police say they found a huge online abuse network stemming from a house near Cologne.

From hospital security guard to medical student

Russell Ledet hopes to use his story to inspire black youths "to make an impact".

Australia: Almost all Victoria Covid-19 cases linked to quarantine hotels

Almost all of the Australian state's cases can be traced to returned travellers, an inquiry hears.

Belarus: Two rivals, two very different messages

The addresses came as anti-government protesters rallied in the capital.

Portugal president helps rescue two women caught at sea

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa assists the women as their canoe capsizes amid strong currents.

Google says Australian law would put search and YouTube at risk

The tech firm is fighting efforts to make it pay for local media content.

In pictures: Belarus rocked by anti-government protests

Hundreds of thousands of people have taken to the streets amid anger over a disputed election.

Juan Carlos: Spain's former king confirmed to be in UAE

Juan Carlos, now linked to a corruption probe, has been in the Gulf country for two weeks, palace says.

Ryanair cuts flights as EU virus rates hit bookings

The airline said activity for September and October "notably weakened" over the past 10 days.

Colombia offers reward after eight young partygoers killed

Gunmen shot dead the youths at a party in Nariño province, an area where drug gangs are active.

Thai protests: Thousands join rally in Bangkok

The anti-government rally in Bangkok is thought to be the biggest in the country for six years.

'Hottest temperature on Earth' as Death Valley, US hits 54.4C

A reading of 130F (54.4C) recorded in Death Valley could be the highest reliable recording ever.

Belarus protests: 'There's no way back. The people will not forgive this'

Belarusian media figures tell the BBC how their lives have been turned upside down during the protests.

Strikes expected in Belarus after mass protests

Rallies against the disputed election were held over the weekend but the president remains defiant.

Ruby Princess: New South Wales premier apologises over cruise ship outbreak

State officials made "serious mistakes" in letting 2,650 ship passengers disembark, an inquiry found.

USPS: Pelosi to recall the House to 'save' the post office

Speaker Nancy Pelosi accuses President Donald Trump of a "campaign to sabotage the election".

Egypt TikTok and Instagram stars pay heavy price for 'indecency'

They have millions of followers, but Egypt's social media stars are paying a heavy price.

The couple blamed for an Islamic State attack on their wedding

An Islamic State bomb devastated the happiest day of Rehana and Mirwais' life - then they were blamed.

Joe Biden: Where does the US presidential hopeful stand on key issues?

Where does the 2020 Democratic presidential hopeful stand on key issues for voters in the election?

The two students who took on Coke and Pepsi

German friends Mirco Wiegert and Lorenz Hampl launched best-selling Fritz-Kola in 2003.

Coronavirus: Hundreds gather in Madrid for anti-mask protest

Crowds gathered in the Spanish capital on Sunday to protest against the mandatory use of face masks.

MSC Grandiosa: First Mediterranean cruise launches after five-month pause

Operator MSC Cruises says everyone aboard has been tested for coronavirus amid safety concerns.

Kei Nishikori tests positive for coronavirus two weeks before US Open

Japan's Kei Nishikori tests positive for coronavirus and will not play at the Cincinnati Masters, with the US Open two weeks away.

Mogadishu attack: Somali troops battle gunmen who stormed Elite Hotel

Troops battle al-Shabab militants who stormed the Elite Hotel in the capital, Mogadishu.

Lewis Hamilton wins Spanish Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton dominates the Spanish Grand Prix to take his fourth victory in six races so far this year.

What's happening in Belarus?

Protesters keep up pressure over disputed elections, as President Lukashenko vows to stand firm.

Coronavirus: How music played on in lockdown

The music industry nearly ground to a halt as the pandemic gripped the UK, so how have companies coped?

Israel and UAE launch direct phone links after historic accord

The two countries' foreign ministers hold a telephone call following a deal to normalise relations.

Jessica McCaskill beats Cecilia Braekhus to become undisputed world welterweight champion

Jessica McCaskill hands Cecilia Braekhus her first professional defeat in a huge upset to become the undisputed world welterweight champion.

Zimbabwe rejects Catholic bishops' criticism of corruption and abuse

A government minister accuses the Church leaders of joining groups seeking "to manufacture crises".

India rape: Two men arrested for 13-year-old's rape and murder

Police deny the family's account that the girl's eyes had been gouged during the ordeal.

Thai protests: Thousands gather in Bangkok to demand reforms

Thousands gather in Bangkok to demand a revised constitution and reform of the monarchy.

Mauritius oil spill: Wrecked MV Wakashio breaks up

The MV Wakashio, which spilled more than 1,000 tonnes of fuel oil off Mauritius, has split apart.

Man City 1-3 Lyon: Lyon stun Man City in Champions League

Manchester City's Champions League dream is over for another year as Lyon stun Pep Guardiola's side 3-1 to reach the semi-finals.

Belarus protests: 'We can breathe for the first time in our lives'

After 26 years of President Lukashenko's rule, there is a sense of euphoria among protesters.

Robert Trump: President's younger brother dies in hospital

The president visited his brother, Robert Trump, in hospital on Friday afternoon.

Fawzia Koofi: Afghan negotiator and campaigner shot by gunmen

The US envoy said shooting of Fawzia Koofi was an attempt to disrupt the Afghan peace process.

Belarus: Vladimir Putin 'pledges support' for President Lukashenko

President Lukashenko says Russia offered comprehensive assistance, as protests continued on Saturday.

Egypt Facebook page raises hopes for missing children

After years searching in vain, a father's nightmare is brought to an end using an unlikely source.

Philippines death penalty: A fight to stop the return of capital punishment

The death penalty might soon return to the Philippines, but critics warn it targets the most vulnerable.

Democratic National Convention: What to expect at Biden's nomination party

Covid may have spoiled the party in Wisconsin, but there's still a lot you need to know about the virtual event.

Spree: The Drake-produced 'takedown' of attention-seeking violence

Stranger Things' Joe Keery stars as a taxi driver who resorts to desperate measures for internet fame.

Coronavirus: Ten African innovations to help tackle Covid-19

Coronavirus has inspired Africans to create a wide range of inventions to help fight the pandemic.

Coronavirus: South Africa eases lockdown as 'outbreak reaches peak'

South Africa's president says infections have peaked, as he seeks to revive the country's economy.

Angola orders Brazil evangelical churches to close

Prosecutors seize buildings run by the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God, alleging corruption.

Chloe McCardel: Swimmer seeks to beat men's Channel record and quarantine

Chloe McCardel hopes her 35th Channel swim, beating the men's record, will not end in self-isolation.

Coronavirus: France quarantine starts after race to beat deadline

Holidaymakers had just hours to return to the UK to avoid the 14-day self-isolation requirement.

MS Dhoni: India legend retires after 16-year international career

India great and World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni retires after a 16-year international career.

Belgian cyclist crashes off bridge in Italy

Remco Evenepoel has crashed and fallen several metres off a bridge during the Il Lombardia race.

MS Dhoni retirement leaves a void in world cricket

India's most successful captain and one of the all-time greats had a profound impact on the sport.

Pompeo signs deal to redeploy troops from Germany to Poland

The agreement, signed in Warsaw, will see some US troops redeployed from Germany to Poland.

China restaurant apologises for weighing customers

The policy was introduced after a national campaign against food waste was launched.

Australia surfer saves wife by punching shark

A husband leapt on to the shark as it attacked his wife off Port Macquarie, New South Wales.

Barcelona: What next after their humiliating 8-2 defeat by Bayern Munich?

What next for Barcelona after a humiliating 8-2 Champions League quarter-final defeat by Bayern Munich?

Belarus: Baltic states call for new 'transparent' election amid protests

The leaders of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia urge Belarus to re-run its disputed presidential vote.

Thai king commutes death sentence of UK pair’s killers

Two men from Burma were convicted of murdering backpackers David Miller and Hannah Witheridge.

Dolly Parton: 'Of course black lives matter!'

The legendary country singer has been reticent to share her political beliefs in the past.

Belarus election: 'He threatened to burn us alive'

The BBC speaks to some of those arrested and detained during anti-government protests in Belarus.

'Miel Gibson' honey lands Chilean entrepreneur in hot water

One small company found itself in trouble after using the Hollywood actor's image to sell honey.

Trump visits brother in New York hospital

"He's having a tough time," the president said, though the younger sibling's condition is unclear.

VJ Day: Japan marks 75 years since end of WWII

Japan's surrender on 15 August 1945, also known as VJ Day, marked the end of World War Two.

'If you croak we don't care': Brutality in Belarus

The BBC hears shocking accounts of police brutality as the Belarus president defies mass protests.

VJ Day: A WW2 hero and a reckoning with Japan's past

Hiroo Onoda had sworn never to surrender. He believed the rest of his countrymen would do the same.

Netanyahu focus of Israeli protests against 'the king'

The prime minister's home becomes the focal point of the biggest demonstrations for years.

How a BBC show helped shape Africa

The BBC Focus on Africa programme has played a dramatic role in covering the continent over the last 60 years.

The fiery Indian student who ran a secret radio station for independence

Usha Mehta was 22 when she started broadcasting during India's freedom movement.

Nigerian police rescue Kano man locked up in his parents' garage

The emaciated 30-year-old had been left for at least three years without proper care, police say.

Thai protests: Student leader Parit Chiwarak arrested on sedition charges

Parit Chiwarak, 22, is arrested for taking part in the first of a series of protests urging reforms.

Kushner: Israel-UAE treaty a 'massive change' for the region

President Trump's advisor says it will make the region safer, but the Palestinians decry "betrayal".

Belarus election: Exiled leader calls weekend of 'peaceful rallies'

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya tells people not to "stay on the sidelines", six days after a disputed vote.

José Filomeno dos Santos: Son of Angola's ex-leader jailed for five years

José Filomeno dos Santos was accused of stealing $500m from Angola's Sovereign Wealth Fund.

US 2020: Biden campaign says Trump 'abhorrent' for fuelling Harris conspiracy

The Biden campaign issues a scathing response after Mr Trump spreads false information about Kamala Harris.

Belarus: Opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya speaks from exile

Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya speaks out from exile via a video she uploaded to YouTube.

Nestlé sued over tonnes of dead fish in French river

The fish were found in a river in north-eastern France and some 14 species have been affected.

Coronavirus: 'Serious mistakes' made over Ruby Princess outbreak

An Australian inquiry is highly critical of the authorities' handling of the Ruby Princess outbreak.

The students risking it all to challenge the Thai monarchy

In Thailand, criticising the royal family can mean secret trials and long prison sentences.

Madagascar president's herbal tonic fails to halt Covid-19 spike

Cases of Covid-19 in Madagascar quadrupled over a month despite the president pushing an unproven remedy.

New Zealand extends Auckland ‘lockdown’ for 12 days

The country went 102 days without community transmission, but now has a cluster of 29 cases.

Coronavirus: Florida sheriff bans deputies from wearing masks

The order also requires visitors to the sheriff's office to have their face uncovered.

Taliban prisoner release: Afghan government begins setting free last 400

The prisoners include some 44 insurgents who are of particular concern to the United States and other countries.

Amazon launches online pharmacy in India

The internet retail giant's move comes as US tech firms are investing billions of dollars in India.

'Firenado' rages through Angeles National Forest

The brush fire north of Los Angeles is not contained. At least 100 structures were evacuated.

US 'foils' militant cryptocurrency fundraising

The US government seizes millions from the Islamic State group, al-Qaeda and the armed wing of Hamas.

Rise in far-right threats against Justin Trudeau, police warn

The threats follow a number of security incidents targeting Canadian federal officials.

Department of Justice says Yale discriminates against whites and Asians

The Ivy League university denied that its admissions process breached Supreme Court rulings.

The girl who picked up an AK47 to defend her family

An Afghan girl was hailed as a hero, but her story was more complicated than it first looked.

Beirut blast: Picking up the pieces of a shattered city

The destruction goes for miles, but Beirutis are slowly picking up the pieces in a broken city.

Mauritius oil spill: Are major incidents less frequent?

Oil slicks can lead to major environmental disasters but industry experts say regulations are now much tighter.

Robots go their own way deep in the ocean

Firms are building robots that can survey the seabed and underwater structures without human help.

Trump blocks postal funds to prevent expanded mail-in voting

The Postal Service requires emergency funds to cope with the pandemic and the election, Democrats say.

Coronavirus: Australia encouraged by drop in new Covid-19 cases

Daily new infections fall to their lowest level since 20 July, as Melbourne remains worst-hit.

California officer saves man stuck on train tracks in wheelchair

Officer Erika Urrea took action when she saw a 66-year-old man in a wheelchair on the tracks as a train was approaching.

Douglas Emhoff: Kamala Harris's husband and potential 'second gentleman'

Douglas Emhoff is one of his wife Kamala Harris's most enthusiastic cheerleaders - but who is he?

US jobless claims below 1m for first time since March

The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits falls to 963,000.

Israel and UAE strike historic deal to normalise relations

Israel and the UAE agree to normalise relations, marking the third Israel-Arab peace deal.

Beirut explosion: Children dealing with the trauma of the explosion

Thousands of injured, displaced and traumatised children are dealing with the aftermath of the port explosion.

US military helicopter struck by bullet over Virginia

The FBI is investigating the shooting of the Air Force helicopter, which injured one crew member.

Frankfurt sniffer dog catches whiff of hidden cash stash

Aki, a nine-year-old German shepherd, has sniffed out nearly €250,000 this summer.

France sends jets and ships to tense east Mediterranean

The French military deployment comes amid Greek-Turkish tension over oil and gas exploration.

Belarus election: Women form ‘solidarity chains’ to condemn crackdown

Women take to the streets of Minsk dressed in white as they demand an end to police brutality.

Mozambique battles IS militants for key port

It says Islamists who seized a city near lucrative gas reserves are using local people as human shields.

Spanish region bans smoking over coronavirus risk

Experts say the risk of transmission is higher because droplets are projected when exhaling smoke.

Belarus elections: Shocked by violence, people lose their fear

Defiance is spreading in the face of attacks by police on people in the streets and detainees.

FC Dallas' Reggie Cannon condemns booing as players took a knee

FC Dallas' Reggie Cannon condemns the "disgusting" booing of players kneeling during the national anthem by some home fans before an MLS game.

US calls for shower rules to be eased after Trump hair complaints

The US calls for rules to be eased after Donald Trump complained of issues washing his hair.

Dolphin stampede wows whale watchers

A safari group sailing near Dana Point in southern California came across a travelling pod of dolphins.

China launches 'Clean Plate' campaign against food waste

Some local restaurants have been urged to limit the number of dishes diners can order.

China's Tencent downplays Trump's WeChat app ban

The ban on Tencent's messaging app could end up being be more damaging to iPhone maker Apple.

New Zealand coronavirus: 14 new Covid-19 cases reported

The country's biggest city, Auckland, is back in lockdown after a family cluster emerged.

Coronavirus: Netflix to stream Diana musical before Broadway debut

The life story of the princess will become the first Broadway show to premiere on the small screen.

Belarus election: Second Belarus protester dies as UN sounds alarm

Protesters accuse police of brutality in the wake of Sunday's disputed presidential election.

Rapper who refused Bollywood to become voice of poor

Dule, a former migrant worker, has turned to rap music to make a difference – and a living.

Beirut blast: The other countries with dangerous dumps of explosives

The blast in Beirut is a reminder that tonnes of dangerous materials are being stored in several countries.

Mocimboa da Praia: Key Mozambique port 'seized by IS'

After days of fighting, IS is said to have driven government forces out of Mocimboa da Praia.

Belarus election: How Nexta channel bypassed news blackout

Demonstrators defied an internet shutdown using a channel called Nexta that posts videos and photos.

Jimmy Lai: Arrested Hong Kong tycoon tells protesters to be 'careful'

Jimmy Lai tells the BBC he has no regrets, but believes his arrest is "just the beginning".

Biden VP pick: Kamala Harris to join Biden in Delaware

Joe Biden will formally introduce Kamala Harris as his vice-presidential pick in Delaware on Wednesday.

'Hundreds dead' because of Covid-19 misinformation

A study says at least 800 people have died globally because of coronavirus-related misinformation.

Kamala Harris: Countries rush to celebrate Biden's running mate

People in India, Jamaica and Canada are queuing up to heap praise on the California senator.

Coronavirus: Russia calls international concern over vaccine 'groundless'

Scientists from around Europe and the US have expressed scepticism over its newly-announced vaccine.

Coronavirus in Europe: Infections surge in Germany and Spain

From travel restrictions to rules on mask-wearing, here's a look at how Europe is handling the pandemic.

Sumner Redstone: US media mogul dies aged 97

His influential entertainment empire included ViacomCBS and Paramount Pictures.

Mauritius oil spill: Rush to pump out oil before ship breaks

The MV Wakashio ran aground on a coral reef on 25 July, and has leaked oil into the ocean.

Belarus election: Police beat protesters as EU condemns vote

Police are accused of brutality as the EU says Sunday's election was "neither free nor fair".

QAnon supporter Marjorie Taylor Greene wins Georgia Republican primary

Marjorie Taylor Greene seems set to become the conspiracy theory's first devotee in Congress.

Trini Lopez, singer and Dirty Dozen actor, dies with coronavirus at 83

The Mexican-American singer and guitarist had a hit in 1963 with his version of If I Had A Hammer.

Agnes Chow: Hong Kong activist hailed as the 'real Mulan'

The 23-year-old democracy activist arrested under a new security law is a folk hero to her supporters.

Three killed in Bangalore clashes over Prophet Muhammad post

Police in the southern city of Bangalore opened fire on protesters angered by the Facebook post.

Why Kamala Harris is a historic VP pick for Joe Biden

Biden's choice breaks barriers as she's the first black and Asian-American woman on a presidential ticket.

Mexico: Ex-President Enrique Peña Nieto accused of corruption and bribery

Prosecutors open an investigation after allegations made by the ex-head of the state oil company.

Coronavirus: World's biggest gambling hub reopens for business

The "Las Vegas of Asia" is hoping to bring back the high-rollers after its virus-driven visitor slump.

Indigenous Australians 'farmed bananas 2,000 years ago'

It further dispels a myth that Indigenous Australians were solely hunter-gatherers, scientists say.

Coronavirus: France's champagne industry goes flat amid pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic has led to plummeting demand - leaving growers and producers at loggerheads.

Enoch Adeboye sexism row: Why the Nigerian pastor is popular

Enoch Adeboye riles social media critics with his views on women, but this has not dented his standing.

Coronavirus: Can California's economy survive the latest surge?

The US state has had to reverse its reopening plans amid a surge in cases.

Trinidad and Tobago poll: Governing party claims victory

PM Keith Rowley looks set for a second term as preliminary results from the general election come in.

Coronavirus: Putin says vaccine has been approved for use

The Russian president says the vaccine has passed all the required checks but experts are sceptical.

Beirut explosion: Protests continue despite government's resignation

Prime Minister Hassan Diab blamed last week's devastating explosion on years of endemic corruption.

French activist who worked with Guatemala indigenous people shot dead

Benoit Maria, who worked with indigenous groups, was killed in the north-west of the country.

Black-ish episode airs two years after being pulled for being 'partisan'

An episode of Black-ish was pulled by ABC in 2018 over concerns it was too anti-Trump.

Apple Daily: The Hong Kong newspaper that pushed the boundary

China has arrested the founder of the Apple Daily, a rare paper unafraid to openly criticise Beijing.

Beirut explosion: 'Who could replace her?'

Sahar Fares, a firefighter medic, was called to the scene of a fire. She died in blast that followed.

Stunning 'reverse waterfall' filmed near Sydney

Wild weather on the New South Wales coast in Australia has blown waterfalls upstream.

Belarus election: Opposition leader Tikhanovskaya 'safe' in Lithuania

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya leaves Belarus as protests continue over Sunday's disputed elections.

Coronavirus: Australia's Northern Territory extends border restrictions for virus hotspots

The virus-free Northern Territory will continue to ban visitors from Victoria and New South Wales.

Hong Kong paper Apple Daily defiant after arrest

The pro-democracy paper vows to fight on after the arrest of owner Jimmy Lai under a new security law.

Trump: Tech giants challenge US foreign worker crackdown

Amazon, Apple and Facebook are among the firms backing the legal case against the temporary visa ban.

Apple boss Tim Cook joins the billionaires club

The company's share price has soared, helping to boost the personal wealth of its chief executive.

Berlin murder: Slovakia to expel three Russian diplomats

The expulsions are reportedly related to the murder of a Georgian man in Berlin last year.

Coronavirus and South Africa's toxic relationship with alcohol

A ban on drinking highlights a legacy of the country's racist past but threatens it economic future.

Beirut explosion: Where else is ammonium nitrate being stored?

After the Beirut disaster, concerns are being raised about stockpiles of ammonium nitrate in other countries.

Belarus: Five things you may not know about the country

The country's election has put Belarus back into the headlines but what do you know about the country?

'Bacha bazi' outrage after pandemic takes play to the small screen

The Boy Who Danced on Air is cancelled after its TV debut provokes a backlash among Afghans.

India Air crash survivor recounts final minutes in plane

Yuojin Yusuf was one of 190 passengers aboard an Air India Express plane that skidded and crashed.

Downfall: BP worker sacked after Hitler meme wins payout

Scott Tracey used the scene from Downfall to portray scenes from company wage negotiations.

Fixing the scars of Beirut's explosion

A plastic surgeon is offering free surgery to people like Romy, who was driving near the port when the blast hit.

Coronavirus: Keeping the virus at bay on S Korea's beaches

Authorities have implemented a number of safety measures to keep visitors safe this summer.

Coronavirus: Does your mask need an upgrade?

Designer Anne Sophie Cochevelou decorates her face coverings with anything from Barbies to Pokemon toys.

Mauritius oil spill: Fears vessel may 'break in two' as cracks appear

The MV Wakashio, which ran aground on a coral reef on 25 July, is now leaking oil off the island.

Nigerian singer sentenced to death for blasphemy in Kano state

Musician Yahaya Sharif-Aminu broadcast a song about Prophet Muhammad in March.

McDonald's sues ex-boss Easterbrook over sexual relationships

The fast food giant claims former boss Steve Easterbrook lied about his behaviour.

Toshiba shuts the lid on laptops after 35 years

Toshiba has sold its remaining shares in its former personal computing division.

Greece on alert as Turkey sends survey ship to disputed waters

A Turkish research ship sails to an area of the Mediterranean where energy resources are contested.

Belarus election: Opposition disputes Lukashenko landslide win

President Lukashenko's main challenger refuses to accept defeat amid fears of vote-rigging.

Mexico bear that sniffed woman's hair castrated

The black bear was captured after he was filmed approaching a visitor at an ecological park.

In pictures: Deadly floods hit Yemen's historic capital

Some 130 people have died in heavy rains since mid-July, authorities in rebel-held Sanaa say.

China imposes sanctions on US senators over Hong Kong

High-profile US officials are sanctioned but China avoids targeting anyone in the Trump administration.

Kenyan military deployed to fight fire in Tsavo park

The Kenya Wildlife Service blames the huge fire in the country's biggest park on arsonists.

Simon Cowell thanks medics after breaking back in electric bike fall

The music mogul says he should have "read the manual" before riding his new electric bicycle.

Beirut explosion: DJ finds 'sense of relief' in music

28-year old DJ and music producer 'june as' is one of the thousands of people trying to piece back his life after the blast.

US PGA Championship: Collin Morikawa wins to deny Paul Casey first major

American Collin Morikawa emerges from a stacked leaderboard to win the 2020 US PGA Championship after a flawless final round in San Francisco.

Beirut explosion: Death toll rises to 200 as protests continue

The governor of Lebanon's capital says dozens remain missing, as anti-government protests continue.

US angers China with high-profile Taiwan visit