Coverage of opposition to prime minister Vladimir Putin's bid for presidency has prompted a Soviet-style crackdown on Russia's independent media. But, while this was expected by many, this time the dissenting voices are refusing to be silenced.

Human rights groups and international lawyers are calling for the Obama administration to explain the legal basis for expanding the US drone programs, and reveal the number of civilian deaths caused by drone strikes.

Republican candidate Mitt Romney has won presidential primaries in Michigan and Arizona, but concerns remain that he's not a particularly strong frontrunner in a nominating fight with no end in sight -- and one that is turning increasingly bitter ...

As Julia Gillard wins the Labor Party leadership fight with a decisive victory over challenger Kevin Rudd, ABC Austalia takes a look back at today's drama and action -- and how voters have been reacting to it.

Syrian military shelling has continued on the city of Homs as a referendum boycotted by opposition parties approved a new constitution proposed by president Bashar al-Assad.

Independent United Nations investigators say that the Syrian army has committed crimes against humanity against civilians under orders from the government, as international condemnation of the Assad regime grows.

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard is set to call a leadership ballot in the wake of Kevin Rudd's dramatic resignation in Washington, DC.

As Yemenis go to the polls to replace president Ali Abdullah Saleh in an election with only one candidate -- the current vice president, Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi -- Scott Bevan talks with former diplomat and Middle East expert Philip Eliason to fin...

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says a referendum on a draft constitution will be held in less than two weeks with parliamentary elections to follow in 90 days. His proposals would limit presidents to two seven-year terms and end one-party rule i...

Greece has responded to the outbreak of violence in the country's streets by calling a snap election.