Our Focus programme brings you exclusive reports from around the world, followed by comment and analysis from our newsroom in Paris. Monday to Friday at 7.15 am and 11.15 pm.
Iraqi Sunni protests trigger reaction from PM Maliki
Anti-government protests in Iraq, which began over a week ago, are continuing. The country's Sunni community, which dominated Iraq under the regime of Saddam Hussein, say they are being marginalised by the current Shia establishment. Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has partially met one of their demands and released 700 women prisoners, but he warned demonstrators against triggering an "Iraqi Spring".
While Afghans back home vote in an election marred by violence, thousands of refugees are looking for asylum abroad. Here in a Paris park, Afghans refugees have joined Iranians and Kurds in setting up a makeshift camp.
The recent spate of deadly bomb attacks across Baghdad is seen in some quarters as an attempt to destabilise the government and undermine confidence in its ability to provide security. The attacks were the worst seen in the capital for months.
Afghans account for the vast majority of the 1,600 asylum seekers presently in Indonesia. They are hoping to reach Australia, but for many the journey is riddled with obstacles.
According to officials, 80 inmates have committed suicide in French prisons in 2009. Dr Louis Albrand is leading a group of experts to look into the matter. Their report is expected in October.
In today's Focus, an in-depth look at the upcoming elections in Afghanistan as seen from neighbouring Pakistan, which is waging a costly war against a Taliban insurrection.
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