UN asks donors to pledge more money to tackle famine

An emergency meeting has been held by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation in Rome to address the famine in the Horn of Africa. The worst drought in 60 years has led to a shortfall of food which is causing the deaths of thousands, and up to 12 million people could be affected across several countries in the region. The presence of Islamic extremists and a lack of funds mean aid agencies are struggling to provide relief.

FOCUS

15/09/2009 - ZIMBABWE

Has power-sharing helped?

A year ago, a new power-sharing government took over in Zimbabwe, a country crippled by inflation, poverty and disease. Has the coalition helped symbols of national pride, such as Zimbabwe's university, get back on their feet?

01/10/2009 - FRANCE

String of suicides at France Telecom sparks call for action

On Friday, a 32-year-old woman became the 23rd France Telecom employee to commit suicide in the last 18 months. As her death sends shockwaves throughout the country, we ask what is so terribly wrong at France's main telephone operator.

FINANCIAL CRISIS

Lehman bank collapse: one year on

On September 15, 2008, Lehman Brothers went bankrupt, victims of the subprime crisis and excessive risk-taking. Exactly one year after the scandal, former employees reflect on the fall and its consequences.

11/09/2009 - SPAIN

Abortion debate splits country in two

As Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Zapatero presses ahead with plans to make abortion legal in Spain, the stage is set for another showdown between reformists and a conservative camp fired up by the Catholic Church.

10/09/2009 - FRANCE

Sarkozy makes case for carbon tax

French President Nicolas Sarkozy has unveiled plans to levy a carbon tax on consumption of oil, gas and coal, set at 17 euros per tonne of CO2 emitted. But his call for urgent action to tackle global warming is yet to win over a sceptical public.