Australian property prices post biggest monthly gain in 17 years

Record low mortgage rates, improving economy, gov't incentives and a limited supply of homes are driving prices up.

Suu Kyi appears in court as Myanmar protesters return to streets

Aung San Suu Kyi's lawyer denied access to her ahead of court hearing as police fire tear gas to disperse protesters.

Nomadland makes Golden Globes history, as Boseman honoured

Nomadland director Chloe Zhao, who was also named best director, is the first female director to win best drama.

‘Sticky bombs’ in Kashmir set off alarm bells among Indian forces

Small, magnetic bombs that have wreaked havoc in Afghanistan seized during raids in recent months in disputed region.

Asian shares rally on optimism of global recovery

Bond markets stabilise after central banks across the world assured of economic policy support.

US envoy to visit Kabul, Doha as Taliban calls for troops pullout

Zalmay Khalilzad's mission comes a year after US and Taliban signed an accord aimed at ending Washington's longest war.

India’s Modi tweets photo getting COVID vaccine’s first shot

Indian PM urges every eligible person to get vaccine in an effort to rid the country of the new coronavirus.

Argentine titanosaur may be oldest yet: study

The 20-metre lizard, discovered in Argentina in 2014, roamed what is now Patagonia some 140 million years ago.

Hundreds turn out for Hong Kong activists on ‘subversion’ charges

Charges relate to primaries, which were designed to pick best candidates for legislative polls, which were then delayed.

‘Freedom, justice’: Why Hong Kong people are moving to the UK

China's security law a key reason that Hong Kong people are leaving the territory to start their lives anew elsewhere.

Syria says Israel attacked areas around southern Damascus

Israel targets Iran-backed strongholds in second attack in less than a month on outskirts of Syrian capital.

In Nigeria, an agonising wait for parents of 300 abducted girls

Families anxiously wait for news after gunmen kidnap 317 schoolgirls in Zamfara, latest in string of mass abductions.

Voters go to the polls in El Salvador

Opinion polls ahead of Sunday's vote show strong support for President Nayib Bukele's Nuevas Ideas party.

Chad opposition leader says several relatives killed in home raid

Yaya Dillo tells reporters five of his family members were killed when security forces raided his home in N’Djamena.

What is happening in Haiti, where political crisis persists?

Opposition and civil society leaders say President Jovenel Moise's term is over. He and his supporters say otherwise.

What’s happening with China’s Uighurs? | Start Here

Human rights groups say the Chinese are committing horrific crimes against Uighurs.

Turkey summons Iran envoy over remarks on Iraq operations

Turkey says the PKK presence in Iraq is a national security threat and it is Baghdad’s responsibility to take action.

Activism for profit: America’s ‘anti-affirmative action’ industry

How non-profits working to unveil 'problems' with policies that increase diversity obstruct racial equity in the US.

Dozens detained at Kazakhstan political prisoner protest

Police in Kazakhstan detained protesters calling for the release of political prisoners in line with an EU resolution.

Israeli-owned vessel docked in Dubai after mysterious explosion

American officials say the vessel sustained two holes on its port side and two on its starboard side.

Gaza’s first digital archive documents rich cultural history

Multi-dimensional platform documents Gaza's historical buildings and heritage sites in English and Arabic.

Indian rooster kills owner during cockfight

Thousands of roosters die each year in the battles despite efforts by animal rights groups.

Hong Kong police charge dozens of activists with security crime

Forty-seven pro-democracy activists charged with 'conspiracy to commit subversion' in major crackdown on dissent.

Iran receives China’s Sinopharm jabs as COVID deaths reach 60,000

Iran will receive several million more doses of foreign vaccines while advancing work on promising local candidates.

Analysis: Syria’s peace process and the Russian and US roles

Ten years into Syria's devastating war, the country’s peace prospects have never been gloomier.

‘You can carry on or give up’: Families living with rare diseases

What happens when your child is diagnosed with a disease so rare that few doctors understand it?

Fighting intensifies between Houthis, Yemen gov’t forces in Marib

Dozens of fighters from both sides killed in 'unabated' fighting since Friday in Yemen's strategic province of Marib.

‘Protecting dignity’: Iran’s push to fight violence against women

A draft bill, nearly a decade in the making, could help empower women in Iran - if can clear the final legal hurdles.

A war is being waged against academic freedom in Britain

The accusations of anti-Semitism against David Miller aim to silence pro-Palestinian voices on university campuses.

In Pictures: Police escalate crackdown on protests in Myanmar

Security forces have stepped up violence against anti-coup demonstrators in Yangon and other cities in Myanmar.

New Zealand’s Auckland in lockdown for second time in a month

Jacinda Ardern announces seven-day lockdown in Auckland after authorities detect a community case of unknown origin.

One reported dead, many hurt as Myanmar police fire at protesters

Local media say police opened fire on protesters in Yangon, killing at least one person and wounding many more.

Saudi Arabia ‘intercepts ballistic missile attack over Riyadh’

Saudi-led coalition blames Yemen's Houthis as state TV broadcasts footage of explosions in the air over Riyadh.

US authorises Johnson and Johnson’s COVID vaccine

Single-dose vaccine is the third authorised in the US and is 85 percent protective against severe illness.

Myanmar army fires ambassador to the UN after coup speech

In a speech on Friday, Kyaw Moe Tun called on the United Nations to use 'any means necessary' to halt a military coup.

Ecuador health minister steps down over COVID vaccine roll-out

Juan Carlos Zevallos is latest government official in South America to resign over coronavirus vaccine scandals.

Armenian president rejects army chief’s dismissal after PM order

PM Nikol Pashinyan had urged President Armen Sarkissian to fire army's chief of staff after accusing military of coup.

Inuit voices grow louder in fight over Nunavut mine expansion

Inuit communities in northern Canada say they fear iron ore mine expansion will harm wildlife and cultural practices.

Thousands mark anniversary of Kremlin critic Nemtsov’s murder

Opposition supporters laid flowers on a bridge in Moscow where Boris Nemtsov was killed six years ago.

Tanzania COVID U-turn ‘a good move’ – but is it good enough?

After months of downplaying deadly disease, government officials have urged people to take precautions and wear masks.

LeBron James hits back at Zlatan in athlete activism spat

NBA champion James says he will not stop talking about 'things that are wrong' after criticism from Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Tunisia main party rallies supporters, escalating government dispute

A rally of tens of thousands in Tunisia's capital raises the spectre of competing protest movements.

Myanmar ramps up violent crackdown on anti-coup protesters

Security forces use rubber bullets, tear gas and stun grenades, signalling growing intolerance of anti-coup protests.

Why Black History Month makes me feel like a failure

I feel I'm letting my ancestors down by how little I know about them, but I'm learning from those making history now.

Kidnappers release 42 abducted from school in Nigeria

Twenty-seven students, three school staff and 12 members of their families were abducted last week by an armed gang.

‘Brutal murder’: World reacts to US report on Khashoggi killing

Calls for 'accountability' grow as US report finds Khashoggi killed by Saudi hit squad operating under command of MBS.

Australia: The battle to get Big Tech to pay for news

A new Australian law looks to reset Big Tech’s relationship with news media.

Western Europe’s biggest oil exporter targets deep-sea mining

Norway could license companies for seabed mining by 2023 to meet demand for batteries, wind turbines and solar energy.

Claude Joseph: Is Haiti’s democracy at risk?

The Haitian foreign minister discusses his country’s ongoing political crisis.

Bangladesh under ‘no obligation’ to take stranded Rohingya: FM

Foreign minister says Bangladesh not obliged to accept 81 Rohingya refugees adrift for almost two weeks in Andaman Sea.

US House approves Biden’s $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief plan

Included in the legislation are $1,400 direct payments to individuals and $400 a week unemployment benefit until August.

Lady Gaga’s dogs recovered safely after abduction, shooting

American singer's two French bulldogs recovered unharmed after being stolen by thieves who shot, wounded dog walker.

Turkey’s AK Party criticised for holding rallies amid COVID surge

The governing party denies accusations that packed rallies are spreading COVID in some of Turkey's worst hit regions.

Myanmar protesters in running battle with security forces

Protesters set up barricades to slow down security forces as one report say another member of Parliament arrested.

UN, European states call on Israel to halt demolitions

UN says at least 70 people or so living in the Bedouin community face displacement in Humsa Al-Baqaia district.

UN rights chief decries abuses in Xinjiang, arrests in Hong Kong

Michelle Bachelet wants an independent assessment of situation in Muslim Uighur homeland as her China visit is delayed.

Colombia launches ‘elite force’ to target rebels, drug gangs

The new unit consisting of 7,000 personnel will be deployed to border with Venezuela and to drug trafficking hotspots.

Ex-US Olympics gymnastics coach kills himself after abuse charges

John Geddert faced 24 charges, including sexual assault, human trafficking and running a criminal enterprise.

Nigerian school students abducted in second kidnapping in a week

An unspecified number of school children abducted in northwest Zamfara state, a spokesman for the state governor said.

Libya’s new PM delays naming Cabinet as deadline passes

PM Dbeibah's failure to name Cabinet raises questions over whether his interim government can unite the divided country.

Several dead as gang leader escapes in Haiti prison break

The director of the prison on the outskirts of Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince was among those killed.

From hinterland to Hollywood, Indian farmers galvanise their stir

A wave of global support for the months-long protests has complicated matters further for the Modi government.

‘Moral evil, economic good’: Whitewashing the sins of colonialism

How war, violence and extractivism - rather than ethics - defined the legacy of the empire in Africa.

India rescues 81 Rohingya on drifting boat, 8 dead, one missing

India's coastguard finds 81 survivors and eight dead on boat crammed with Rohingya refugees adrift in the Andaman Sea.

Living with the Volcano

Life in the shadow of an active volcano might be risky but people living near Mount Vesuvius in Italy are there to stay.

Russian diplomats use hand-pulled trolley to cross N Korea border

It took group of eight 32 hours by train and two hours by bus to reach the border on 'long and difficult' journey home.

Facebook signs deals with three more Australian media firms

Australia's parliament passed landmark legislation on Thursday requiring global tech giants to pay for news content.

Biden’s trade nominee vows ‘worker-centric’ model to protect jobs

US Trade Representative nominee's stance suggests permanent shift away from liberalisation policies of pre-Trump era.

Sri Lanka finally lifts ban on burial of COVID victims

Controversial ban imposed since March last year lifted after months of protests by Muslim and rights groups.

Brazil surpasses 250,000 COVID deaths, a year after first case

The South American country has the world's second-highest death toll after the United States.

India tightens regulatory grip on social media companies

Big Tech firms will be obliged to remove content within 36 hours of receiving a legal order, according to new rules.

US jobs market shows signs of improvement but challenges ahead

Weekly jobless claims tumbled by 111,000 last week to three-month low, as demand for US goods rose strongly in January.

UK imposes new sanctions on generals, Myanmar tensions mount

Six generals cited over rights abuses and companies told not to work with military-linked businesses after Feb 1 coup.

Dutch parliament says China’s treatment of Uighurs is genocide

The Dutch motion says China's actions in Xinjiang, including birth control measures, fall under UN genocide convention.

Michael Somare, PNG’s ‘father of the nation’, dead at 84

Pacific island nation's four-time prime minister was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in early February.

US attacks ‘Iranian-backed military infrastructure’ in Syria

Pentagon spokesman says move was in response to recent rocket attacks on US troops in Iraq.

Killings in Axum by Eritrea troops ‘may amount to war crimes’

Amnesty says hundreds of civilians were killed by Eritrean troops in Ethiopian town of Axum last November.

Follow the money: Myanmar coup puts pressure on army businesses

Calls are growing for sanctions on the military's vast business empire after the February 1 coup.

First asylum seekers from Mexico’s Matamoros border camp enter US

Some of the asylum seekers have been there more than a year due to immigration rules set by former President Trump.

Trial of US citizen charged with terrorism in Venezuela to begin

US State Department spokesman Ned Price called for a fair hearing for Matthew Heath, who was detained in September.

China’s Xi declares ‘complete victory’ against rural poverty

China says about 98.99 million people in countryside have been lifted out of poverty in the last eight years.

British law professor under fire over ‘Islamophobic’ statements

University of Bristol students seek apology and review of a module they say expresses 'bigoted' views on Islam.

In Greece, a wildfire of ‘Me Too’ allegations singes the cabinet

Culture minister Lina Mendoni is facing calls to resign over rape accusations levelled at one of her appointees.

Armenia PM warns of coup attempt after army seeks his resignation

Tensions between Nikol Pashinyan and the military are rising as a new protest movement against the PM gains momentum.

Pakistan offers Sri Lanka $50m credit line for defence purchases

The two countries also agree to increase intelligence sharing and cooperation on security issues.

For broadcasters, sports brands, Tiger Woods crash forces rethink

Woods could make lots of money even if he does not return to competitive golf, but sponsors will lose a key asset.

Global shares jump on hopes that US interest rates will stay low

Federal Reserve Chair Powell stressed need to return US to full employment, with inflation remaining a lower priority.

In Pictures: A year on, justice eludes victims of Delhi violence

Many believe the justice system under PM Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist government has become stacked against them.

Scuffles in Yangon as Facebook bans all Myanmar military accounts

Pro-military demonstrators punch bystanders after people in the area bang pots and pans to show their disapproval.

What are ‘vaccine passports’ and should we have them?

Having to prove you have been vaccinated against a disease is not new, but some oppose COVID vaccine passports.

Kazakh president orders ban on foreign ownership of farmland

Kazakhstan, a major producer of grains, oilseeds and meat, is seeking to end a dispute that has prompted protests.

India, Pakistan agree to stop cross-border firing in Kashmir

In rare move, India and Pakistan agree to 'strict observance' of ceasefire along de facto border in disputed Kashmir.

UN urges Gulf states to step up to avert Yemen famine

UN aid chief says Yemen on a 'knife-edge' of famine, amid smaller aid contributions from Gulf countries.

In Pictures: Ecuador prison riots leave dozens dead

Ecuador raises death toll from one of country's bloodiest prison riots, as police chief warns new riot under way.

Australia’s Qantas delays target date for international flights

Airline now says it is aiming to resume international flights in October, as it reported a 75 percent plunge in revenue.

US transport department faults aviation body over Boeing 737 MAX

In new report, US Transportation Department says 'much work remains' in fixing how aviation body certifies new planes.

Justice has failed Sri Lanka civil war victims: UNHCR

Efforts to ensure justice for victims have failed, Michelle Bachelet says while introducing her report on Sri Lanka.

Gunmen kill 36 in attacks in northern Nigeria

Armed bandits kill people, burn down houses in villages of Kaduna and Katsina states.

Two dead in shootout between Philippine police, narcotics agents

Video footage of incident in Manila shows officers exchanging fire as pedestrians and shoppers run for safety.

India plans new social media controls after face-off with Twitter

New Delhi, angry with Twitter for ignoring request to erase accounts, wants content down within 36 hours when asked.

Australia passes law making Facebook and Google pay for news

The legislation could provide a framework for other countries looking to address platforms' dominant position.

US report on Khashoggi murder critical for justice: UN expert

White House says unclassified US intelligence report on 2018 murder of Saudi journalist will be released 'soon'.

Biden overturns Trump bans on green cards and work permits

Trump-era measure restricting many visa applicants cited need to protect US jobs amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Why does Western media exploit women?

New York Times documentary on pop icon Britney Spears raises questions about abuse.

On Rush Limbaugh, comics not reporters told the truth

While much of the establishment media extolled Limbaugh’s 'undeniable talents', comics were decidedly less impressed.

World’s biggest cricket stadium renamed after India’s Modi

In surprise move, new name announced by the president during ceremony ahead of the third Test between India and England.

China targets Uighurs with more prosecutions, prison terms: HRW

China has increased its prosecution of Muslim minorities in Xinjiang, handing out longer jail terms: HRW report.

Why the 2020 violence in Delhi was a pogrom

The violence was organised and systematic and it appears that the Indian authorities were complicit.

Judge bans enforcement of Biden’s 100-day deportation pause

Biden proposed the 100-day grace period during his campaign as part of a larger review of immigration enforcement.

Ghana receives first COVID vaccine through UN-backed COVAX scheme

At least 600,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine arrive in Accra as part of efforts for equitable global access to jabs.

Fears of new COVID variants lead to lengthier travel quarantines

Tighter quarantine requirements due to mutant viruses is delaying the recovery in international travel, analysts say.

Calls to help US women falling out of labour force grow louder

More than one-third of parents, mostly women, have yet to return to the workforce, largely because of childcare needs.

Verdict expected in Germany’s landmark Syria torture trial

Court ruling will be the first in the world related to the brutal repression of protesters by the Syrian government.

In Pictures: Ecuador Indigenous people march against ‘vote fraud’

Indigenous presidential candidate Perez wants recount in 17 of Ecuador's 24 provinces as his supporters rally in Quito.

‘Political move’: Sri Lanka urges rejection of UNHRC resolution

Sri Lanka subjected to 'unprecedented propaganda campaign', foreign minister says in video address to the UNHRC.

‘Mutual suicide’: US issues stark warning on climate change

'Our heads in the sand at our own peril,' US envoy for climate warns, as leaders discuss security implications.

Biden, Iraqi PM discuss recent rocket attacks in phone call

The Iraqi PM and the US president say those responsible for recent rocket attacks should be 'held fully to account'.

US aviation body orders urgent probes of some Boeing 777 engines

Inspections are to focus on Pratt & Whitney engines of the type that failed during a United Airlines flight on Saturday.

India says COVID strains not behind sudden surge in cases

Officials say mutated versions of coronavirus not responsible for surge in cases in Maharashtra and Kerala states.

Killing of Palestinian man by Israel an ‘extrajudicial execution’

Report says nephew of the late Palestinian negotiator was left by Israeli soldiers to bleed to death for over an hour.

US, Canada pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050

Ahead of UN climate summit, small island states and UK warn of ongoing threats to stability as global temperatures rise.

Indian climate activist gets bail in sedition case over farm stir

Court says there is 'scanty and sketchy evidence' of sedition in Disha Ravi's efforts to help the protesting farmers.

Biden to call Saudi Arabia’s King Salman about Khashoggi report

Report warns the imminent release of 'explosive' US intelligence document could entangle one of the king's sons.

‘Crisis within a crisis’: Violence against women surges in Fiji

A nearly year-long curfew for the COVID-19 pandemic, has compounded the dangers faced by women in abusive relationships.

Myanmar set for more protests, as Indonesia steps up diplomacy

Indonesia's foreign minister is trying to build a regional coalition to resolve the crisis triggered by the coup.

US: Police will not face charges in Daniel Prude’s death

Grand jury votes not to indict police officers involved in arrest and suffocation death of 41-year-old man.

The ‘Greta Thunberg’s toolkit’ scandal and rule of law in India

The prosecution of activists for sharing a solidarity toolkit reflects the deepening institutional crisis in India.

Timeline of events in Myanmar since February 1 coup

Fears of a violent crackdown grow as protesters continue to rally across Myanmar calling for an end to military rule.

Dreaming of Zimbabwe: Stories from the diaspora

From fleeing for political reasons to looking for an adventure, Zimbabweans share why they left their home country.

US: Suit blames Saudi Arabia for 2019 attack at Florida army base

The lawsuit is filed on behalf of the families of three killed by a Saudi military trainee at a base in Florida.

Georgian police storm opposition party offices, detain its leader

Georgian police arrested Nika Melia and fired tear gas in a raid on his party headquarters.

Kuwait to close land, sea border in latest COVID restrictions

The closure won't affect shipping operations, while citizens and domestic workers would be allowed to return.

Facebook agrees to restore Australian news pages

Australia and Facebook have been in a standoff over a draft law that will force tech giants to pay for news.

Women linked to Abu Sayyaf suicide bombings arrested in Sulu

Suspects Philippine military calls 'potential suicide bombers' face illegal possession of explosives charges.

In Pictures: US pandemic toll – one year, half a million lives

Precisely one year on, the United States has surpassed a horrifying milestone of 500,000 deaths from COVID-19.

Long-serving Saudi oil minister Ahmed Zaki Yamani dies at 90

Sheikh Yamani helped Saudi Arabia command a dominating presence in OPEC from its birth.

Lam defends China’s plan to ensure only ‘patriots’ rule Hong Kong

Beijing says anyone who 'goes against China and disrupts Hong Kong' must not take office in the semi-autonomous city.

Commodity prices at eight-year highs, raising inflation concerns

Commodities are seeing bullish wagers led by hopes that gov't stimulus and near-zero interest rates will fuel demand.

US Treasury deputy chief nominee pledges to get tough on China

Wally Adeyemo says he will fight 'unfair economic practices in China' along with tackling inequality in the US.

US energy body to examine climate change threat to power grid

The decision follows power outages in Texas due to extreme cold snap that left millions of people without electricity.

Electric car maker Lucid Motors to go public with $11.75bn deal

The firm is benefitting from a wave of investments in EV startups, spurred by a rise in Tesla shares in the past year.

US detains wife of Mexican drug cartel chief El Chapo

Ex-beauty queen, daughter of an alleged senior Sinaloa cartel member arrested at Dulles Airport outside Washington, DC.

Rights groups in last gasp bid to stop Malaysia deportation

Groups take court action, send letters of appeal to stop Malaysia from sending 1,200 people back to Myanmar.

Yellen’s yardstick: US Treasury chief sees unemployment as key

Janet Yellen says the US's effective unemployment rate is nearly 10%, far higher than the headline rate of 6.3%.

‘Extremely promising’: 1st dose of COVID vaccine cuts illness

Separate studies from England and Scotland show that risk of illness and hospitalisation reduced from first jab.

US sanctions two more Myanmar generals after protest crackdown

US move follows military's use of force against peaceful protests over the weekend that left two dead.

Asylum seekers waiting in Mexico rattled by delays to US entry

President Biden has promised to reverse Trump-era programme that forced migrants to stay in Mexico pending US hearings.

Biden-Trudeau meeting: A ‘return to stability’ after Trump

Joe Biden will hold his first official meeting with a foreign leader, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, on Tuesday.

Canada’s parliament says China’s treatment of Uighurs genocide

Non-binding motion comes amid increasing pressure on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to take harder line against China.

Top India court halt’s tycoon Mukesh Ambani’s retail deal: Report

The verdict is a win for Amazon which says Future Group's sale to Ambani's Reliance Industries violates its contract.

Qatar Petroleum to supply 1.25m tonnes of LNG to Bangladesh

QP signs deal to supply 1.25 million tonnes of LNG annually to Vitol customers in Bangladesh.

Saudi women can join military in latest widening of rights

The kingdom said in 2019 it would allow women to leave the country without permission from a male relative.

UN chief tells Myanmar military: ‘Stop the repression’

Guterres demands Myanmar military free prisoners and end violence, as he opens a four-week summit on human rights.

South Korea agrees to partial release of blocked Iranian money

South Korea’s move comes after the US reversed two Trump-era moves against Iran.

Pakistani female aid workers shot dead by assailants

At least four aid workers killed after unidentified gunmen fired at their vehicle in North Waziristan, police say.

What will it take to stay one step ahead of a mutating COVID-19?

Scientists and doctors from around the world explain.

Tanzania’s president admits country has COVID-19 problem

President John Magufuli's comments come following WHO warning over the country's 'very concerning' virus situation.

In Pictures: Businesses shut as Myanmar protesters defy military

Tens of thousands rally across Myanmar as part of general strike against the coup despite warnings from the military.

UAE unveils $1.36bn in arms deals at Abu Dhabi weapons show

Major arms makers attended a convention in Abu Dhabi hoping to swing deals with militaries across the Middle East.

China’s ‘No 1 document’: Beijing steps up focus on food security

China points to 'instability of the external situation' in latest rural policy blueprint, urges boost in seed supplies.

India, China complete troop pullout from disputed border

The two Asian rivals agree to 'disengage' after months of heightened tensions raised the spectre of a full-fledged war.

Dozens of whales strand at notorious New Zealand bay

Forty-nine pilot whales found at Farewell Spit, the scene of at least 10 pilot whale strandings in the past 15 years.

Israel’s coronavirus vaccines wielding political power

In contrast to long waits in Europe and the US, vaccines are readily available to anyone who wants one in Israel.

UN appeals for rescue of Rohingya adrift in Andaman Sea

Refugee agency says the refugees have run out of food and water and a number of people have already died.

China-US trade: Beijing urges Washington to remove tariffs

Wang Yi called on Biden to restore a bilateral relationship damaged under Trump by removing 'unreasonable tariffs'.

China urges US to stop interference, outlines plan to reset ties

Wang Yi calls on Washington to stop meddling in internal affairs, lift trade restrictions and people-to-people contacts

HSBC to move top executives from UK back to Hong Kong: Report

Europe's biggest bank is paring back its global ambitions and refocusing its efforts on Asia.

US to probe certain Boeing 777s as Japan grounds some of the jets

US orders scrutiny of 777s with same type of engine that failed on United Airlines flight forcing return to airport.

Australia pulls health ads from Facebook after news blackout

Facebook is playing hardball over a government plan to force technology giants to pay for the news on their platforms.

Myanmar begins general strike in face of military threats

Millions expected to join protests calling for restoration of democracy three weeks after military seized power.

Palestinian vaccine drive faces funding shortfall: World Bank

Bank urges Israel, which has made the most progress globally on vaccination, to give Palestinians its surplus shots.

UK to challenge China at UN meeting for Xinjiang access

UK Foreign Secretary will say UN needs 'urgent and unfettered' access to region where Uighurs have been held in camps.

Two explosions in Afghanistan kill at least three: Officials

At least two people, including a child, killed in Kabul blast and one person killed by explosion in Helmand province.

Thousands flee homes as storm Dujuan hits southern Philippines

Tropical storm Dujuan was packing maximum winds of up to 65km/h as it moved northwest over the southern Philippines.

Sudan devalues currency in effort to access debt relief

Move meets key demand by foreign lenders to help Sudan's transitional authorities overhaul battered economy.

After deaths, WHO urges Tanzania to share COVID data, take action

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged Dodoma to take measures against the pandemic and to prepare for vaccinations.

Why are India’s farmers angry? | Start Here

Why are hundreds of thousands of farmers in India protesting against new laws the government says will help them?

Nigerian military aircraft crashes on approach to Abuja airport

Aviation minister says King Air 350 'crashed short of our Abuja runway after reporting engine failure en route Minna'.

Tennis: Djokovic wins record-extending ninth Australian Open

Novak Djokovic thrashes Daniil Medvedev in straight sets to win his 18th Grand Slam title in Melbourne.

The global COVID-19 vaccine debacle and predatory capitalism

The botched global vaccination campaign is a great illustration of why our current capitalist system does not work.

US sanctions inflicted $1 trillion damage on Iran’s economy: FM

After the US lifts sanctions and rejoins the JCPOA, Iran will expect some form of compensation, FM Zarif says.

A ‘war zone’: Witnesses describe violence at Myanmar protests

Security forces in Mandalay are using increasingly violent and lethal methods to snuff out anti-coup protests.

Arauz and Lasso advance to Ecuador’s presidential runoff

Socialist Andres Arauz and conservative Guillermo Lasso will compete in the second round of the polls in April.

What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccines?

Doctor Amir Khan explains what to expect after getting a coronavirus vaccine.

Israel starts reopening as number of vaccinations nears 50%

Shops are open to all but leisure centres limited to those inoculated or immune showing a 'Green Pass' app.

Iran: Results suggest primary COVID vaccine 90 percent effective

Iran says its first locally manufactured vaccine has exhibited better-than-expected results in preliminary testing.

United plane suffers engine failure, scatters debris over Denver

The plane with more than 230 on board landed safely at Denver International Airport after the right engine failed.

US: Ex-policeman implicates NYPD, FBI in Malcolm X murder

Letter written by former undercover NYPD policeman alleges his department and the FBI covered up details of the killing.

Erdogan: Turkey’s common interests with US outweigh differences

Turkish president seeks improvement in ties between the two NATO allies that have been strained over a host of issues.

US: Three dead in New Orleans gun store shooting

A man opened fire in a gun store, killing two people, before he was shot dead after customers as staff fired back.

In Pictures: Protests over jailing of Spanish rapper turn violent

Police clash with protesters in Spain on the fifth night of protests against the jailing of rapper Pablo Hasel.

In Pictures: Jakarta slammed by monsoon floods

More than 1,300 residents forced to evacuate Jakarta after Indonesian capital hit by severe monsoon floods.

Global backlash grows after Myanmar forces kill two protesters

UN condemns deadly violence as Singapore warns of 'adverse consequences' and Facebook deletes military's main page.

Australia begins COVID-19 vaccinations with Pfizer/BioNTech jab

Up to four million Australians are expected to receive a COVID-19 vaccine voluntarily by March.

Inspiring cultures: Bruce Lee’s Fist of Fury dubbed into Noongar

After inspiring a Noongar family, the movie has been dubbed into an Australian Aboriginal language for the first time.

Tennis: Osaka cruises to second Australian Open title

Japan's Naomi Osaka claims victory over the 22nd-seeded Jennifer Brady, winning her fourth major crown at the age of 23.

For Lebanese and Iraqis, small victories in a long struggle

Demonstrators in both nations may have been beaten by the system but they are not ready to concede defeat.

Russian court rejects Navalny’s appeal against jail term

The Kremlin critic appealed a ruling that turned a suspended sentence on embezzlement charges into real jail time.

Three separate Kabul explosions kill 5, wound 2: Afghan police

It was not immediately clear what caused the blasts but a majority of attacks in recent months have been sticky bombs.

Refugee families like mine cannot bear to wait much longer

President Biden should hold his promise to overturn his predecessor's immigration policies without further delay.

Trump ally Erik Prince violated Libya arms embargo: UN report

Confidential report finds Prince supplied renegade Libyan general Khalifa Haftar with weapons and foreign mercenaries.

How rich is Russia’s President Vladimir Putin?

After revelations of a $1.3bn Black Sea palace, there are questions over the president’s wealth.

The fictional menace of multiculturalism

We should celebrate, not fear, the growing cultural richness of our societies.

How drones have added a new dynamic to conflicts

Drones have become the means of the first choice in modern warfare and are used by state and non-state actors.

Thai PM survives no-confidence vote amid more planned protests

The vote marks the second no-confidence test Prayuth’s government has faced since taking office in July 2019.

Raids and internet blackouts: Myanmar’s military vs protesters

Myanmar’s military is battling a civil disobedience movement that is growing online. Plus, Britain's digital divide.

Arancha Gonzalez Laya: Are Spanish arms fuelling war in Yemen?

Spain’s foreign minister discusses her country's business opportunities and responds to questions on foreign policy.

Monsoon floods hit Indonesian capital, forcing 1,300 to evacuate

While Jakarta residents are used to heavy flooding in the rainy season, scientists warn the floods are getting worse.

India court extends activist Ravi’s detention over farm protests

Disha Ravi accused of 'sedition' over allegedly creating online 'toolkit' intended to help protesting farmers in India.

Condemnation after Iraqi-Kurd journalists given 6 years in jail

Sentences spark outrage across the Kurdish region where press freedom has been in precipitous decline for some time.

Is COVID-19 endangering Native American culture?

Tribes say locked in a race against time to save language, customs and history.

‘Kimye’ split: Kim Kardashian files for divorce from Kanye West

The filing follows months of leaks and reports that the marriage between the two celebrities was on the rocks.

Australia: Facebook has ‘tentatively friended’ us again

Australia PM says government talking to tech giant as standoff results in decline of traffic to country' news sites.

Myanmar’s minorities join protest in show of unity against coup

Despite misgivings about Aung San Suu Kyi's commitment to autonomy, ethnic groups stress the need to save democracy.

Dozens of pilot whales die in Indonesia’s Madura Island

Rescue effort launched to save dozens of beached pilot whales but 46 died while only three were returned to sea.

US wary China’s new coast guard law could escalate sea disputes

Washington, DC says language in the law could be used to intimidate Beijing's neighbours in the region amid sea tension.

Argentina health chief asked to resign after VIP vaccine access

Scandal surfaced after a veteran journalist said he received a jab after speaking with the country's health minister.

Feds charge nine Oath Keepers with conspiring to storm US Capitol

Following Trump, the group planned a military-style attack that even contemplated staging an armed 'reaction' force.

‘We have received bodies with the mask on. Where is the dignity?’

Portuguese funeral homes are inundated with virus victims, as undertakers say they are not seen as front-line workers.

Somalia: Heavy gunfire erupts at opposition march in Mogadishu

The violence comes after weeks of tensions over delayed elections in the Horn of Africa nation.

Israeli study finds Pfizer vaccine 85% effective after first shot

Researchers say a longer follow-up is required to understand the effect of one shot to inform second dose delay policy.

Colombian army committed 6,400 extrajudicial killings: Court

Killings allegedly presented as combat deaths to boost perception of military gains in conflict against FARC rebels.

Myanmar female protester dies as military crackdown hardens

First death among opponents of the February 1 military coup likely to become a rallying cry for protesters.

US seen leaving Germans off Nord Stream 2 sanctions list: Report

Report expected to list small number of Russia-linked entities involved in gas pipeline that will supply to Europe.

Oil prices extend slide on demand concerns due to US big chill

Investors fear that oil refineries could remain hobbled for weeks after snow storms in southern US states.

US Treasury chief Yellen: China tariffs stay in place for now

Yellen also says tax hikes would be needed to pay for large infrastructure, climate and education investment plan.

US offers to restart talks with Iran to revive nuclear deal

The US Secretary and European powers say US will engage in nuclear talks if Tehran first returns to full compliance.

Egypt’s el-Sisi offers support to Libya’s new prime minister

El-Sisi welcoming of new interim government in Tripoli represents a recalibration of Egyptian policy, say analysts.

China admits it lost four soldiers in 2020 India border clash

Beijing publicly concedes its side suffered casualties in deadly brawl that also killed at least 20 Indian soldiers.

Technocracy is back in Italy – but with a different agenda

Prime Minister Draghi’s economic plans mark a break from neoliberal orthodoxy. Will progressives seize the opportunity?

Yemen famine could threaten opportunity for peace, UN warns

UN Yemen mediator Martin Griffiths also called for a stop to a Houthi offensive on the government-held city of Marib.

Hong Kong eyes significant overhaul of public broadcaster RTHK

Months-long review comes as the government replaces the broadcaster's director six months before his term expires.

Africa COVID deaths surpass 100,000 amid second wave

South Africa, where a more contagious COVID-19 variant has been found, accounts for nearly half of continent's deaths.

Malaysiakini found guilty, fined, over readers’ comments

Malaysia's top court rule online newspaper has 'full responsibility' for its website, including readers' comments.

‘Sorry’: Brokerage chief at heart of GameStop saga apologises

Brokerage app Robinhood's CEO says he recognises customers were upset about temporary halt in GameStop share trading.

Rich nations ‘hoarding’ a billion doses of excess COVID vaccine

Surplus of vaccine doses sufficient to vaccinate the entire adult population of Africa, according to campaign group.

Australia to push ahead with media law despite Facebook blackout

US, Canada, Britain and India back Australia as analysts warn platform's hardball tactics could backfire.

Rebel Riot: The punk soundtrack to Myanmar’s anti-coup protests

Inspired by protesters in Hong Kong and Thailand, Myanmar's youth aim to grab the world's attention.

US hits Belarusian officials with travel bans for crackdown

US secretary of state announces sanctions on 43 Belarusian nationals hours after two journalists are sentenced.

US immigration agents ordered to focus on serious criminals

The Biden administration has also come under pressure from pro-immigrant advocates to scale back enforcement further.

‘Abhorrent’: Malaysia’s plan for Myanmar repatriation condemned

Rights groups warn the people could face persecution if they are returned to military-ruled Myanmar.

Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai denied bail again

Beijing critic arrested under national security law in August when 200 police officers raided his tabloid's newsroom.

Thai-developed COVID vaccine to proceed to human trials

Announcement that human trials will begin by early May comes amid criticism of Thailand's COVID strategy.

Free sanitary products in NZ schools to beat period poverty

Research shows that one in 12 young people skipped school because they did not have access to sanitary products.

Thousands of ‘cold-stunned’ sea turtles rescued off Texas coast

About 4,700 turtles stunned turtles washed ashore in the US state amid a deadly cold snap that has wrought havoc.

French minister warns of ‘Islamo-leftism’ in universities

Comments by the minister of higher education lead to a backlash from activists and some university leaders.

Top EU, US diplomats to discuss reviving 2015 Iran nuclear deal

Diplomats to hold talks aimed at saving the imperilled landmark 2015 agreeement amid Iranian threats of non-compliance.

UN chief, climate envoy Kerry to mark US return to Paris accord

Return to 2015 climate agreement comes as Biden administration seeks to re-engage in international organisations.

Texas’s big freeze pushes oil prices to 13-month highs

Texas oil producers and refiners remain shut due to icy cold weather, cutting output by 1-4 million barrels per day.

Seiko Hashimoto takes over as Tokyo 2020 chief after sexism scandal

Japan's female Olympics minister replaces Yoshiro Mori, who resigned after making sexist comments.

Crypto mania! Bitcoin leaps past $52,000 for the first time

For some, Bitcoin rally is a symptom of the speculative frenzy due to ultra-low interest rates, other stimulus measures.

South African COVID variant may reduce vaccine protection: Pfizer

Researchers find South African COVID variant could reduce Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine antibody protection by two-thirds.

It is time to end extractive tourism

The pandemic presents us with a great opportunity to do away with the destructive mass tourism industry.

US: Severe cold, power outages cause major water problems

Millions of Texas residents suffer water and power cuts as sustained cold snap enters its sixth day.

Myanmar protesters urge China to condemn coup, will Beijing act?

Protesters accuse China of backing Myanmar generals, but analysts say Beijing does not favour a return to military rule.

Erdogan: Turkey to start lifting COVID curbs in March

Turkey's president says a plan on reopening cafes and restaurants, shut down for months, is to be announced soon.

Myanmar detainees near 500 as hackers go after military websites

Arrests stepped up as protesters pour onto streets in opposition to the coup and civil servants go on strike.

A day in the life of a New York retail stock investor

After losing his job as a line cook at a New York City restaurant, Pablo Batista threw himself into the stock market.

World’s oldest DNA sequenced from million-year-old mammoths

Scientists sequenced DNA from the teeth of mammoths discovered in Siberia in the 1970s.

For foreign investors in Myanmar, coup adds new uncertainties

Possibility of Western sanctions leaves foreign entrepreneurs in Myanmar worried about their future prospects.

Broken news: Facebook blocks Australia pages in dispute over law

Outrage as latest Facebook salvo against 'pay for news' plan leaves pages of news companies, essential services dark.

US state gives vaccines to aides for elderly, drawing criticism

Massachusetts giving vaccine priority to elderly residents' aides fuels frustrations of those still waiting for jabs.

Xanana Gusmão condemned over visit to paedophile priest

East Timor independence hero criticised for meeting Richard Daschbach ahead of priest's trial for child sex abuse.

Biden and Netanyahu have first call after delay

US president and Israeli PM discussed regional issues, including Iran and recent diplomatic normalisation deals.

Nigerian students abducted by ‘armed bandits’: Reports

The children were reportedly abducted at dawn by armed men from a secondary school in Niger state.

Australian broadcaster Nine in Google media deal as new laws near

Google reportedly agrees to pay Nine more than $23m a year for its content in the latest of such deals.

The Fans Who Make Football: FC St Pauli

Football chants, rock music and anti-establishment flair - St Pauli fans go beyond sport to focus on political activism.

Beirut blast: Where is justice six months on?

The Stream also looks at the latest in Ethiopia's conflict and Filipino nurses in the COVID-19 crosshairs.

Biden says China to pay price for human rights abuses

US president says his country will reassert its global role on human rights and will work to get China to protect them.

UN chief: CAR peacekeeping force needs 3,700 reinforcements

The UN chief says 2,750 military reinforcements and 940 additional police are needed to help the peacekeeping mission.

‘Oil, arms sales, money’: What became of Libya’s revolution?

Ten years after Libya’s Day of Revolt, Al Jazeera's Imran Khan recalls the hope and optimism he witnessed in 2011.

In Pictures: Myanmar’s coup opponents gather for major protests

Southeast Asian country has seen daily demonstrations since February 6, drawing hundreds of thousands of people.

US President Biden says no to ‘defunding the police’

US President would put more money into local policing to hire more diverse officers and train them better for the job.

Death toll rises as severe winter storm sweeps US

Millions without power and at least 20 dead as southern and central US gripped by record-breaking cold weather.

Secrets of the Arab Café

The stories behind four iconic cafés in Marrakesh, Cairo, Algiers and Hebron and their role in conversation and culture.

US sells $200m in weapons to Egypt despite human rights abuses

The $197m sale of Raytheon's Rolling Airframe Missiles was requested by the Egyptian navy to improve coastal defences.

App flap: Twitter’s India troubles give local rival Koo a lift

Koo has a fraction of the users of Twitter but has surged recently after endorsements by Indian politicians.

Japan kicks off COVID vaccine drive with healthcare workers

Japan begins mass inoculation campaign with just five months to go before the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Boeing backs Trump plane emission rule seen by US states as weak

In lawsuit against US environment agency, 12 states said the rule lags 'existing technology by more than 10 years'.

Japan’s ruling party wants women – not their views – at meetings

Liberal Democratic Party to let female legislators join key party meetings as observers, amid complaints over sexism.

New Zealand troops to leave Afghanistan after 20-year deployment

Six remaining personnel leaving in May ending what PM Ardern describes as nation's 'longest-running' deployment.

UN warns of Myanmar violence, as protesters create gridlock

Protesters aim for huge turnout on Wednesday to shatter coup leaders' claims that they have widespread public support

UN condemns ‘reckless’ Iraq rocket attack as US weighs response

Washington, European allies promise to hold attackers accountable but say it is too early to know who is responsible.

North Korea ‘tried to hack’ Pfizer for COVID-19 vaccine

South Korean intelligence services did not say when alleged attack took place or whether it was successful.

Wife of N Korea’s Kim appears in public for first time in a year

Ro Sol Ju, who had not been seen since January 2020, photographed with her husband at a concert.

Biden team looks to repair US ties with Europe in first NATO meet

US defence secretary to meet in Brussels with NATO counterparts to discuss alliance's future, situation in Afghanistan.

Trump lashes out at McConnell as Republican rift deepens

Donald Trump slams Republican legislator Mitch McConnell, who has blamed former US president for Capitol riot.

Cautious optimism as ‘Super Mario’ takes on Italy’s crises

New PM Draghi will work to ease the economic and health challenges gripping the country.

Debt in the time of pandemic

Alongside the pandemic and its impacts on the economy, the US is also facing a growing debt crisis.

Chad deploys 1,200 troops to quell Sahel violence

Chadian forces head to flashpoint border zone among Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso as violence rages.

In Pictures: Pandemic threatens New York’s iconic yellow taxis

Out of some 13,000 licenses, only about 5,000 taxis are running regularly at the moment, according to the union.

Spanish police arrest rapper convicted in free speech case

Officers in riot gear storm Lleida University, in northeastern Spain, where Pablo Hasel had barricaded himself in.

Israel blocks shipment of Russian Sputnik V vaccine to Gaza

Palestinian Authority accuses Israel of stopping 1,000 doses intended for medical workers to blockaded Gaza Strip.

Is coronavirus putting Europe’s Roma further behind?

Romani and Traveller communities across continent face urgent economic and social challenges amid pandemic.

Dozens dead after bus plunges into canal in central India

Police say at least 37 passengers killed after a bus fell off a bridge into a canal in Madhya Pradesh state.

Bangladesh court sentences five to death for killing US blogger

The five are members of an armed group accused of killing Avijit Roy, a US citizen of Bangladeshi origin, in 2015.

Experts puzzled by dramatic fall in coronavirus cases in India

Experts say herd immunity or pre-existing protection from the virus are among several reasons for sudden drop in cases.

Guinea Ebola death toll rises to five as vaccine roll-out begins

Government tracking down people who potentially had contact with Ebola victims and will rush vaccines to affected areas.

The Biden administration can make a difference in the Middle East

But only if it abides by these four principles when putting together its foreign policy towards the region.

Seoul questions North Korean man who crossed armed border

Man was found early morning on Tuesday near a checkpoint on the eastern end of the heavily fortified Demilitarized Zone.

Saudi woman handed death sentence for killing Bangladeshi maid

Saudi court sentences Ayesha al-Jizani to death for killing Abiron Begum in March 2019, says a Bangladeshi official.

Nine Hong Kong activists go on trial over huge democracy rally

Two plead guilty with veteran politician Martin Lee among those charged over one of 2019's biggest democracy protests.

Philippines police raid targets displaced Indigenous students

21 Lumad students taken from a Catholic university shelter in an operation described by police as a 'rescue' mission.

As Chinese film goers pivot to local content, Hollywood loses out

A preference for local movies as well as ongoing US-China tensions have eroded the market for Hollywood movies in China.

Stocks extend bull run on hopes of quick economic recovery

Optimism about a rapid global recovery and low interest rates push Asian shares higher, extending their recent gains.

‘Vaccine nationalism’ will hurt all countries: New WTO chief

WTO's incoming chief said members should speed up efforts to lift export restrictions on medicines and supplies.

Ardern condemns Australia for revoking ISIL suspect’s citizenship

New Zealand prime minister says Australia revoked the citizenship of a woman detained in Turkey over ISIL links.

Why manufacturing is the biggest hurdle in climate change fight

Bill Gates says governments and investors need to find ways to reduce emissions from steel- and cement-making.

Myanmar blocks internet for second night in bid to choke protests

Blackout follows 10th day of protests marked by prominent military presence and rubber-coated bullets used in Mandalay.

Texas freeze leaves millions in northern Mexico without power

Mexico’s government-owned utility says operations were stunted as the winter storm in Texas froze natural gas pipelines.

The ‘superspreaders’ behind COVID-19 conspiracy theories

Investigation identifies people and groups behind some of the most viral misinformation about coronavirus origins.

Group urges foreign officials to locate, freeze Myanmar assets

Activist group says Myanmar military controls $5.7bn in foreign currency reserves, facilitating ‘brutal’ repression.

Israeli air force holds ‘surprise’ drill near Lebanon border

Israeli military exercise comes amid intensified attacks in neighbouring Syria targeting Iranian military assets.

France’s controversial ‘separatism’ bill: Seven things to know

Having debated the bill, French politicians will vote on it this week before it heads to the Senate.

Economic sanctions are damaging the environment

The US cannot become a climate leader without addressing the environmental impacts of its economic sanctions.

Iran vows to limit nuclear inspections if partners fail to act

Iran said it will scale back its comprehensive international nuclear inspections next week if world powers fail to move.

Disha Ravi: Arrest of young Indian activist triggers outrage

Free speech concerns raised after Disha Ravi arrested for sharing 'toolkit' with information on the farmers' protest.

Red Sea coral reefs ‘under threat’ from Israel-UAE oil deal

Experts and activists warn that deal to bring Emirati crude to a pipeline in the Red Sea port of Eilat can cause leaks.

Is it safe for pregnant women to have a COVID-19 vaccine?

This is how the coronavirus, and the new vaccines, may affect pregnancy, breastfeeding, sperm counts and fertility.

Palestinian literary poet Mourid Barghouti dies at 76

Celebrated Palestinian poet Mourid Barghouti passed away in Amman on Sunday after spending most of his life in exile.

In Pictures: Russia and France bury their dead 200 years later

Officials gathered to rebury the remains of 126 people who died during Napoleon's 1812 retreat.

Hajiya Gambo Sawaba: ‘The most jailed Nigerian female politician’

The political activist was publicly flogged, had her hair shaved off with a broken bottle and was imprisoned 16 times.

Peru’s foreign minister resigns over COVID vaccine scandal

Elizabeth Astete steps down amid a growing scandal over politicians receiving jabs well before the general public.

Asian shares at record highs on global vaccine hopes

Successful global roll-out of vaccines has raised hopes of a rapid economic recovery helped by large US fiscal stimulus.

Myanmar military tries ‘divide and rule’ in bid to cement power

Ethnic minorities say they feel betrayed by politicians who have taken jobs with military's State Administration Council

S Korea eases COVID curbs for businesses, plans vaccine roll-out

Authorities push back curfews for restaurants and cafes, allows bars and clubs to open but keep limits on gatherings.

After its worst shrinkage, Singapore sees 2021 economic rebound

With more stimulus expected, government forecasts growth of between 4-6 percent in 2021, but recovery seen as 'uneven'.

Biden promises to re-engage the US with the world in upcoming G7 meet

In his first event with other G7 leaders, Biden will discuss COVID-19, China and the global economy, White House says.

‘Down with the dictatorship’: Protests continue in Haiti

Protesters denounce international support for President Jovenel Moise amid dispute over when his term ends.

Japan’s economy performed better than expected in last quarter

But the recovery is slowing and economists expect Japan's economy to shrink again this quarter due to the pandemic.

Syrian air defences ‘intercept Israeli aggression over Damascus’

Syrian army says Israeli military jets flew over the Golan Heights to hit targets on the edge of Damascus.

Myanmar protests resume, Internet restored as military circles

Armoured vehicles on streets of Yangon as people continue protests for restoration of civilian government.

New Zealand outbreak involves UK variant of virus: Ardern

Origin of the cases, involving the same family, is still being traced as Auckland begins three-day lockdown.

Lebanon kicks off vaccination against COVID-19

Healthcare workers and those aged above 75 first in line for Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines under government roll-out plan.

Mexico gets AstraZeneca COVID vaccine shipment from India

Mexico, which is struggling to control a surge in coronavirus cases and deaths, received 870,000 vaccine doses Sunday.

Ahead of Sahel summit, where do France and G5 countries stand?

France expected to announce Barkhane troop drawdown as Sahel leaders increasingly mull negotiations with armed groups.

Biden aide resigns after ‘unacceptable’ threats against reporter

Deputy Press Secretary TJ Ducklo says remarks to female journalist were 'abhorrent, disrespectful and unacceptable'.

DR Congo: Several killed in attacks on Lubumbashi military camps

Four troops, one civilian killed in separatist militia attacks on military sites in the country's second-largest city.

There is still hope for the British left

Despite the defeat of Corbynism, the left in the Labour Party can still stage a comeback if it tackles the right issues.

What’s happening in Myanmar?| Start Here

Why did Myanmar’s military overthrow the government? And what does it mean for democracy?

Bitcoin nears $50,000 as it reaches record

Bitcoin has been buoyed in recent months by endorsements from the likes of Paul Tudor Jones and Stan Druckenmiller.

Spain’s Catalonia holds key election amid fears over COVID

Vote could signal appeal of Catalan secessionists and the political trajectory of the pro-independence movement.

From Pakistan to India: Tracing my grandmother’s refugee journey

After my grandmother died, I turned to online tools to virtually piece together a part of her life she never discussed.

Transcript: Mitch McConnell’s Trump impeachment speech

Donald Trump was acquitted on a charge of 'incitement of insurrection' over the January 6 US Capitol riot.

Lebanon launches COVID vaccine drive, PM to wait ‘turn’: Live

After a sharp rise in COVID infections, Lebanon starts vaccine drive as PM Hassan Diab says he will wait his 'turn'.

In Hong Kong, freedom of expression is shrinking fast

Under the 2020 National Security Law, intimidation of activists and journalists and self-censorship are on the rise.

15 sailors kidnapped off Nigeria return to Turkey

Survivors recount stories about death threats they endured during their captivity in a forest.

New generation faces old guard in Kosovo election

As Kosovars head to the polls, a new generation of politicians is seeking to tap into widespread disillusionment.

UAE jails Jordanian for 10 years for criticising Jordan’s gov’t

HRW says Ahmed Etoum was sentenced in October solely for peaceful Facebook posts on corruption, inequality in Jordan.

Guinea sees first Ebola deaths since 2016

Four deaths from Ebola hemorrhagic fever occurred in the southeastern region of Nzerekore, officials say.

Huge rallies in Myanmar for ninth day as army steps up arrests

Tens of thousands take to streets as the military hunts protest backers and steps up arrests.

In Pictures: Protest in Cyprus draws water cannon, arrests

Police in Nicosia use water cannon, tear gas to disperse protesters rallying against corruption and COVID response.

Thirteen Turkish civilians killed as anti-PKK operation ends

Defence chief Hulusi Akar says 48 PKK fighters were killed in clashes with 13 Turkish civilians found dead in a hideout.

In Pictures: Strong quake off Japan’s Fukushima

Powerful earthquake off the coast of northeastern Japan leaves dozens injured.

Egypt unearths ‘world’s oldest’ mass-production brewery

Egyptian-American team finds a high-production brewery believed to be more than 5,000 years old.

After acquittal, Trump says ‘our movement has only just begun’

Trump slams 'witch hunt' impeachment trial, pledges to continue journey to achieve 'American greatness'.

Mexico’s vaccination campaign stalls, AMLO still won’t wear mask

The nation confronts a stalled vaccination campaign and a president who downplays the threats of the pandemic.

Trump impeachment trial heads towards rapid conclusion

Senators expected to vote this weekend on whether to convict former US president for 'incitement to insurrection'.

Senate readies to vote on Trump impeachment: Live

Democrats and Trump's lawyers make their closing arguments as the Senate ponders an 'incitement of insurrection' charge.

White House says no call planned to Saudi Arabia

President Joe Biden has announced an end to US support for a Saudi-led coalition's war in Yemen.

Italy’s Draghi sworn in as PM amid daunting challenges

Mario Draghi heads unity government called on to confront Italy's coronavirus crisis and economic slump.

Nigerian police beat, arrest protesters at site of Lekki shooting

Activists called for protests after reopening of Lekki toll gate where security forces shot at demonstrators in October.

SARS is no more, but Nigerians say police abuse still here

Months after official scrapping of notorious unit in wake of mass protests, allegations of police abuse persist.

Project Wave: Exposed media corruption scandalises South Africa

A South African media empire is revealed to have been paid millions in exchange for pro-government coverage.

Oxford University to test COVID vaccine response in children

About 300 volunteers to be enrolled in the first study on immune response in children to the AstraZeneca vaccine.

How to ready kids for the real world while raising them with joy?

Author Nikesh Shukla explores race and parenting in his new book ‘Brown Baby’.

White House denies Biden is snubbing Israel’s Netanyahu

PM Benjamin Netanyahu has downplayed the notion he was being slighted by US President Joe Biden.

Somalia: Car bomb blast near Parliament kills and wounds several

Explosive-laden vehicle passed through a security checkpoint in Mogadishu causing security forces to open fire.

BJP deploys its majoritarian tactics against India’s farmers

The ruling party is trying to demonise the farmers' protests by portraying them as a Sikh conspiracy.

Critics denounce Lebanese justice system after activist’s killing

Concerns mount that Lebanon might return to the days of political killings witnessed between 2004-2008.

Several killed, injured in blasts and clashes across Afghanistan

A string of near-daily attacks in recent weeks has killed government officials, judges, journalists and activists.

Amiriyah bombing 30 years on: ‘No one remembers’ the victims

Families continue fight for justice three decades after deadliest incident of civilian casualties caused by US in Iraq.

British human rights lawyer elected as new ICC prosecutor

Karim Khan, 50, won on a second round of voting at the UN with support from 72 nations, 10 more than the 62 needed.

Decades of plundering: Where has Iraq’s oil wealth gone?

Iraq's dire public services, regular power cuts and water shortages have sparked protest across the country.

Melbourne’s third lockdown leaves Australia Open stands empty

Cluster that triggered the renewed restrictions were staying at a quarantine hotel at Melbourne Airport.

UN envoy draws rebuke for bid to relax Venezuela sanctions

Opposition forces in Venezuela cry foul saying UN representative is falling into 'regime propaganda' of Nicolas Maduro.

How Myanmar’s popular uprising aims to topple military rulers

Amid crackdown, protesters aim is to take away coup leaders' power by stopping all governance mechanisms from working.

Myanmar under pressure at UN as anti-coup protests rage

More nationwide protests expected on Saturday demanding the country's generals relinquish power.

US judge will not stop land transfer for mine in Arizona

The ruling means the land transfer can now take place by mid-March under a timeline approved by Congress.

Myanmar’s military grants amnesty to more than 23,000 prisoners

Sentences of 23,314 Myanmar prisoners and 55 foreign prisoners are remitted as mass protests against the coup continue.

UK economy suffers record 9.9 percent slump in 2020

Many economists think the rebound will be slower than the Bank of England's projections.

Australian Open bars fans after snap COVID lockdown

Tournament organisers group players in 'bubbles' as Victoria state orders lockdown to control a new virus outbreak.

What is Clubhouse and why is the audio chat app so popular?

Invitation-only audio chat app exploded in popularity during the coronavirus pandemic when people couldn't get together.

N Korea: Kim fires senior economic official amid deepening crisis

North Korea's border closure, drop in trade and raw material shortages may lead to perfect storm, analysts warn.

Sisters of freed Saudi activist al-Hathloul demand ‘real justice’

Loujain al-Hathloul was released on Wednesday but her family wants her travel ban to be lifted.

It is time to prioritise education for recovery

Longer term efforts to fund education equitably should be at the heart of the recovery from the pandemic.

Ahmadi man killed in targeted attack in northwest Pakistan

Abdul Qadir has been shot dead at his homoeopathic clinic in Peshawar's Bazikhel area, latest in a series of attacks.

Europe’s battered tourism industry sees little respite in 2021

Holiday nights in Italy, Spain and Greece fell by at least 70 percent last year, European data show.

UN warns COVID hardship could swell ranks of child soldiers

Top UN official says coronavirus pandemic has also hampered efforts to protect children in conflict zones.

Tokyo Olympics chief Yoshiro Mori resigns over sexist comments

Yoshiro Mori quits after his remarks disparaging women's participation in organising the Games caused an outcry.

The Killing Field

We investigate explosive revelations about killings and cover-ups by Australian special forces in Afghanistan.

Lunar New Year show sparks racism row over blackface

In a second incident in China since 2018, performers for a TV show wore outfits depicting Africans, darkened their skin.

‘Mate! No Google?’ Australia faces life without key search engine

Google opposes a planned law that would force it and Facebook to pay Australian publishers for news content.

Spending on green economic stimulus is slowly rising, study finds

Of the $14.9 trillion in public stimulus spending to offset the pandemic, $1.8 trillion being used for green purposes.

Eight overseas cricketers in top bracket for India’s IPL auction

Eight overseas cricketers and two Indian players slotted in the highest bracket of Indian Premier League auction.

US prosecutors launch criminal probe into GameStop mania: WSJ

Loss-making US retailer's shares soared from $20 to $483 over two weeks last month driven by social media chatter.

Lidia Thorpe: The Indigenous woman shaking up Australia

Granddaughter of a revered Indigenous matriarch takes her fight for justice and equality to the federal parliament .

US, Europe accuse Russia of blocking Ukraine war solutions

US diplomat leads charge in pressing Moscow to 'immediately cease its aggression' in eastern Ukraine, Crimea occupation.

Brazil says Amazon COVID-19 variant three times more contagious

Health Minister Eduardo Pazuello suggests that vaccine works against new variants without providing evidence.

Biden says US faces ‘national emergency’ amid vaccine shortage

But help is on the way, he says, as the US is now 'on track' to have enough supply for 300 million by the end of July.

Charges dismissed against officers who shoved elderly protester

In the June incident, two police officers shoved Martin Gugino, 75, to the ground during a Black Lives Matter protest.

Judge declines new arrest warrant for Kyle Rittenhouse

Prosecutors asked the judge to issue a new warrant for Rittenhouse and up his bail by $200,000.

Trump’s environment policies killed thousands, scientists say

Rollback of environmental protections and politicising of COVID pandemic led to thousands of excess deaths: The Lancet.

China-backed trade deal seen helping investors, not workers

The agreement means countries reliant on cheap labour could end up importing more than they export, analysts say.

Pakistan’s top court bans execution of people with mental illness

Ruling applies to those with serious mental health problems preventing them from understanding nature of punishment.

Malaysia to extend COVID vaccination to all foreigners in country

Ministers have given approval to giving jab to millions of non-Malaysians as it battles surging cases.

Venezuela grants house arrest to jailed state oil firm managers

Aryenis Torrealba and Alfredo Chirinos of PDVSA were convicted of leaking information to the US government.

In Pictures: Haitian police tear gas protesters, journalists

Police accused of attacking journalists who were covering protests against President Jovenel Moise in Port-au-Prince.

Iranian nuclear scientist killed by Israeli automated gun: Report

The Jewish Chronicle says Israeli-led team of 20 plus agents killed Mohsen Fakhrizadeh using a one-tonne smuggled gun.

Indian rescuers drill tunnel to look for trapped workers

More than 35 workers are trapped in the Himalayan tunnel after a flash flood destroyed dams and bridges in Uttarakhand.

The key to lasting peace in the Caucasus is reconciliation

Sustainable peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan can only be achieved through civil society-led reconciliation.

US calls for release of jailed Turkish rights activist Kavala

US State Department says philanthropist Osman Kavala has been jailed for more than three years on 'specious' charges.

This Lunar New Year: Good for China’s factories, bad for travel

Working from home has driven up overseas demand for Chinese exports, keeping workers in factories during the holiday.

US puts climate migrant protections on the table

Joe Biden asks officials to submit report on climate-related displacement and migration, a move welcomed by advocates.

‘It was a dream’: Remembering the fall of Egypt’s Hosni Mubarak

Ten years after Egypt's President Mubarak stepped down, a protester remembers a night of hope and celebrations in Cairo.

Our Time Machine: A Story of Love and Loss

Shaken by his father’s Alzheimer's diagnosis, a Chinese artist sets out to create a magical play based on their lives.

Malaysia’s economy shrank in 2020 by the most since Asian crisis

Economy shrank by a worse-than-expected 5.6 percent last year, with lockdowns likely to lead to more pain, analysts say.

Myanmar’s youth look to future – not past – as they battle coup

Protesters are all too aware of the risks of protesting, but say they cannot accept a future under military rule.

Nepal bans three Indian climbers for faking Mt Everest summit

Narender Singh Yadav, Seema Rani Goswami, team leader Naba Kumar Phukon banned from climbing Nepal peaks for six years.

India says reached deal with China on border troop disengagement

India's defence minister announces breakthrough in Parliament after months-long standoff on the disputed border.

Tokyo 2020’s Mori to resign over sexist comments: reports

Former prime minister ignited anger after he moaned that female members of Japan's Olympic Committee talked too much.

India legislators move to rival Koo as row with Twitter escalates

India expresses 'strong displeasure' over Twitter refusing to comply with orders as BJP members move to homegrown rival.

Haiti police clash with protesters as president targets judges

Police fired tear gas on people marching against President Jovenel Moise in Port-au-Prince targeted reporters.

New arrests in Myanmar, as US moves to sanction coup leaders

US goes after Myanmar funds as it increases pressure on generals to relinquish power.

Avoiding the ‘Two-Faced Blade Demon’ as the Year of the Ox looms

With the help of her plump white birds, Taiwan fortune-teller promises life will start to get better in mid-June.

South Africa scraps roll-out of AstraZeneca vaccine

The health minister says South Africa will instead give unapproved Johnson & Johnson jab to front-line health workers.

UN urges Somali leaders to ‘urgently reach consensus’ on polls

Security Council calls on federal government and regional states to work together for inclusive elections.

Twitter: Order to block accounts ‘not consistent with Indian law’

The social media giant says the order to take down more than 1,100 accounts is not consistent with Indian law.

Families grieve as Indonesia releases report into plane crash

One month after Sriwijaya Air crash, investigators say it is too early to determine exact cause of the accident.

Two more killed as Afghan capital reels under near-daily violence

At least two people, including local police chief, killed after multiple bomb blasts rock Kabul, officials say.

UN Security Council fails to agree on joint Syria declaration

The declaration was meant to jump-start the deadlocked peace process for Syria after nearly 10 years of bloody conflict.

Countering ‘love jihad’ by celebrating India’s interfaith couples

Last week marked the 100th day of a campaign called India Love Project that celebrates interfaith love or marriages.

Why the ‘savage’ K2 peak beckons the daring, but rarely in winter

The world’s second-highest peak has killed one climber for every four who succeeded in reaching its summit.

The Fans Who Make Football: Liverpool FC

How Liverpool FC became a symbol of defiance for its city and grew into one of the most popular teams on earth.

B’Tselem’s ‘bombshell’ apartheid report: Stating the obvious

The Israeli NGO's acknowledgement of Israel's apartheid is just a small step in the right direction.

Bill to help Hong Kong protesters stay in US as refugees revived

Hong Kong Safe Harbor Act aims to help residents of Chinese-controlled city gain refugee status in the United States.

Asian stocks scale new highs as company profits rise

Toyota's latest earnings beat analyst forecasts, as did those of US tech firms Lyft and Twitter.

Zombie nation: UK risks creating unviable firms, think-tank warns

Resolution Foundation says government loan guarantees incentivise banks to lend to firms with weak prospects.

India’s spending on women’s safety ‘grossly inadequate’: Oxfam

Fund named after 23-year-old woman raped and killed in 2012 low on resources and under-utilised, report finds.

Australian court extends detention of Algerian-born Benbrika

Australian court says Abdul Nacer Benbrika, can still be detained beyond his prison term given security risk.

‘They were warned’: Experts on India’s Himalayan glacier disaster

Experts tasked by India's Supreme Court to study impact of receding glaciers on dams had warned the government in 2014.

Eli Lilly’s COVID antibody drug combination gets US nod

Two-drug combination aims to help patients with mild COVID-19 symptoms from becoming more severe.

UK quarantine violators face heavy fines, up to 10 years in jail

Anyone attempting to conceal travel history to 'red list' countries could face a $13,800 fine and imprisonment.

South Korea’s jobless rate hits 21-year high as COVID cases rise

Bleak unemployment picture contrasts sharply with view that South Korea's economy has outperformed its developed peers.

Myanmar military raids Aung San Suu Kyi’s party headquarters

Raid at end of fourth day of protests marked by use of water cannon, rubber bullets that left two people in hospital.

COVID app triggers overdue debate on privacy in Singapore

Government forced to amend law around app after it emerges police used the data to investigate a number of crimes.

South Korea’s Seoul to test pet cats, dogs for COVID

First case of infection in pets in South Korea was reported in South Gyeongsang Province in January.

Twitter wraps ‘extraordinary year’ with Q4 jump in users, revenue

The social media giant's revenue grew 28 percent to $1.29bn in the final months of 2020, beating analysts' estimates.

In Pictures: COVID resurgence dampens China New Year celebrations

A recent resurgence in coronavirus cases in China has prompted authorities to curb travel ahead of Lunar New Year.

Hacker tries to contaminate US town’s water supply

Authorities thwart an attempt by a hacker to poison the water supply in a Florida town of 15,000 people.

Two US carrier groups conduct exercises in South China Sea

Carrier strike groups Theodore Roosevelt and Nimitz carried out multiple manoeuvres in the busy resource-rich waterway.

Italy’s political crisis is an opportunity for the far right

Most signs indicate that the far right will have more influence over the country’s politics in the coming weeks and mont

Amazon-Ambani dispute has foreign investors eyeing India warily

Investors are scrutinising high-stakes retail-sector court case for legal precedents about validity of foreign rulings.

Women in Kuwait launch online campaign against harassment

Women in the Middle East nation speak about daily harassment they go through as they launch their own #MeToo movement.

Nepal economy hit as global warming bares snow-covered peaks

Lack of snow leaves hotel rooms empty and impacts crops as Nepal heats by '0.6 degrees Celsius per decade'.

Twitter seeks talks with India over order to remove accounts

India has asked the company to take down 1,178 accounts it says are spreading misinformation about farmer protests.

Singapore businessman to end army-linked Myanmar investment

Following coup, director of gaming company Razer says he will exit investment in tobacco firm linked to Myanmar forces.

Bitcoin briefly exceeds $47,000 record, stocks and oil also rise

Bitcoin rises 20 percent after Tesla endorsement; Asian stocks, oil gain on US stimulus hopes and vaccine rollouts.

Kashmiri man demanding son’s body charged under anti-terror law

Police charge seven people, including father of teenager killed by government forces, under the stringent UAPA law.

‘Valuable treasure’: Gaza turns to quail as fishing goes belly up

As the Israeli blockade continues to inflict hardship, Palestinians in Gaza are finding innovative sources of income.

Myanmar protesters defy coup leader’s ban and continue rallies

Anti-coup protesters turned out on Tuesday for a fourth day, amid reports the military fired water cannon again.

‘Run!’: India’s glacier disaster survivors recount tunnel escape

Survivors say they clung to scaffolding rods in a tunnel for four hours, keeping their heads above water and debris.

Hong Kong’s top court denies bail to Jimmy Lai in security case

Landmark decision marks the first time Hong Kong's top court rules on a case relating to sweeping national security law.

Biden, Modi discuss climate, ‘democratic values’ in first talks

White House says Biden 'noted that a shared commitment to democratic values is the bedrock for US-India relationship'.

Family of detained Australian adviser to Suu Kyi ‘distraught’

Wife of Sean Turnell, who was detained on Saturday following the Myanmar coup, appeal for his release.

Egypt capitalises on bond boom with $3bn borrowing plan

Low borrowing costs, hopes of a vaccine-driven global economic rebound are emboldening investors to bet on risky assets.

Thailand legalises early abortions; pro-choice groups want more

Changes expected to come into force this week, making Thailand more liberal on abortion than some others in the region.

N Korea developed nuclear weapons programme in 2020: UN report

Monitors believe Pyongyang is using cyber-theft to fund the illicit programme and might be getting help from Iran.

Who’s who in Donald Trump’s second impeachment trial

Trump is first former US president to face impeachment trial and the only president to be impeached twice.

Robinhood sued over 20-year-old American student trader’s suicide

Alex Kearns' family alleges the 20-year-old took his own life after he thought he lost $730,000 on the trading app.

Colombia to grant temporary protection to nearly 1m Venezuelans

Move means Venezuelan migrants and asylum seekers will have greater access to formal jobs and social services.

Many die, hundreds missing as Himalayan glacier bursts in India

Uttarakhand government says 18 bodies recovered, and state's chief minister says at least 200 people are still missing.

Saudi Arabia commutes death sentences of 3 men jailed as minors

Three men sentenced to death for joining 2012 protests as teens have their sentences converted to 10 years in jail.

UK teenager wakes up from coma with no knowledge of pandemic

Joseph Flavill, 19, contracted COVID-19 twice while in a coma after an accident that happened before the lockdown.

K2 climbers in Pakistan feared dead days after they went missing

It was the group's second attempt at climbing K2 this winter, a season that has already seen three other climbers die.

‘All open’: French flock to Madrid cafes for pandemic reprieve

With France's cultural venues shut in the lockdown, leisure-seekers eye their southern neighbour's capital.

In the UK, Muslims find comfort in receiving vaccines at mosques

In a bid to reassure ethnic minority communities about the vaccine, places of worship have been converted into clinics.

This Lunar New Year, less flying in China as virus fears persist

Some airlines offer cheap fares but about 10 percent of flights are cancelled over the coming two weeks, data show.

‘Deeply troubled’: US warns Houthis days after ‘terror’ delisting

State Department calls on Iran-linked rebel group to cease military attacks in Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

Diggers and dreamers: Vinyl collectors in Africa’s city of gold

As records experience a revival across the world, we meet a group of vinyl obsessives in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Afghanistan gets first COVID-19 vaccine shipment from India

Doses to be initially administered to country's health workers and elderly citizens with a history of chronic ailments.

In Myanmar, protesters urge police to join democracy fight

As opposition to last week's coup intensifies, protesters hope police will join the cause.

Why glaciers burst and send floods downstream

As a burst Himalayan glacier wreaks havoc in India, we look at how glaciers and glacial lakes form, and why they break.

Israel PM Netanyahu pleads not guilty as corruption trial resumes

Benjamin Netanyahu returns to court to face three corruption allegations just six weeks ahead of an election.

In Pictures: The deadly glacier collapse in Indian Himalayas

Glacier burst in northern India triggers avalanche and flash flood that washes away hydropower projects and bridges.

Tom Brady wins 7th Super Bowl; Buccaneers manhandle Chiefs 31-19

Legendary 43-year-old quarterback adds fifth Super Bowl MVP to his greatest-of-all-time resume.

Ecuador election heads into runoff with Arauz in lead

The 36-year-old is a protege of former president Rafael Correa and aims to end years of painful austerity measures.

Asian shares edge towards record highs on hope of US stimulus

Hopes of a quicker global economic recovery and crude oil supply curbs by OPEC are pushing stocks and oil prices higher.

Australia says China has formally arrested TV anchor for spying

Cheng Lei, who has been held for nearly six months, is accused of 'illegally supplying state secrets overseas'.

Myanmar protests continue amid calls for a general strike

Third day of protests in Myanmar as activists urge workers to join general strike and 'tear down military dictatorship'.

Indian firm bets on local manufacturing, stock soars 824 percent

With an early bet on manufacturing in India, Sunil Vachani's Dixon Technologies is now valued at $2.5bn.

UK academics investigated over China-linked research: Report

The Times reports the scholars may have unwittingly helped China build weapons of mass destruction.

Anti-trust crackdown: China issues new rules targeting tech firms

Rules are likely to pressure firms such as Alibaba, JD.com, Ant Group and Tencent which dominate e-commerce in China.

China to build the world’s biggest dam on sacred Tibetan river

The dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo is part of China's 'green' initiatives but there are concerns about its effect.

US ending aid to Saudi-led forces in Yemen, but questions persist

Joe Biden's announcement is a pivot in US foreign policy, but experts say what exact support will be cut is unclear.

UN envoy for Yemen in Iran for talks on long-running conflict

Martin Griffiths' trip is part of diplomatic efforts to support a negotiated political solution to Yemen's war.

What’s driving the COVID lockdown protests?

Financial hardship and uncertainty over the COVID pandemic fuelling anti-lockdown demonstrations, experts say.

Should international companies pull investments out of Myanmar?

Foreign firms are under pressure to cut ties with the military following the February 1 coup.

Haiti president says he is staying put amid dispute over term

Opposition leaders and rights groups say Haitian President Jovenel Moise's mandate expires on Sunday.

UN, Ethiopia strike a deal over aid workers’ access to Tigray

World Food Programme says it will 'scale up' operations in embattled region after reaching deal with Addis Ababa.