World Day to combat desertification

As the UN marks the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, people in Rajasthan, northern India, are suffering from one of the worst droughts in decades. There are fears the local economy will suffer as the yearly monsoon season has been delayed.

FOCUS

By Constantin SIMON

06/10/2009 - EGYPT

Christian-Muslim tension in Egypt

The relationship between Coptic Christians and the rest of Egyptian society is taking a turn for the worse. After violence perpetrated by Muslims, some Christians accuse authorities of treating them as second-class citizens.

GUINEA

Amid the bloodbath, harrowing tales of rape

Around 30 women have alleged they were brutally raped by soldiers during the September 28 massacre in Guinea that the UN says left at least 150 dead. FRANCE 24's Tatiana Mossot heard some of their harrowing testimonies.

2016 OLYMPICS

Rio de Janeiro wins bid to be host city

Rio de Janeiro has been selected by the International Olympic Committee Friday to host the 2016 Olympic Games. Focus takes a look at the reaction in Brazil and in the other cities that were competing.

LISBON TREATY

Document's fate lies in Ireland's hands

The Irish go to the polls in a referendum on Friday to give their verdict on the Lisbon Treaty, after 53.4% of voters rejected it in 2008. Since then, what have been the main issues that may persuade the population to change its mind?

01/10/2009 - GUINEA

Political crisis in Guinea

157 people were killed when troops opened fire on protesters demonstrating against the possibility of Captain Dadis Moussa Camara's standing in elections next year, the worst violence Guinea has seen since Camara seized power.