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.
In the haze: Beijing's pollution problem won't go away
China's capital is suffocating from pollution more than ever. Recent weeks have seen the level of fine particles - the most dangerous - rise to 30 times the normal level recommended by the WHO. Facing harsh criticsm from the people, the Beijing authorities announced a massive programme to reduce pollution in the coming years. Yet, five years after tackling the problem in order to stage the Olympics, it's yet another example of how authorities have promised a "new era" for Beijing.
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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