Hollande signs gay marriage billFile pic of women posing during a march in favour of gay marriage in Paris, 27 January 2013

President Francois Hollande signs into law a controversial bill making France the ninth in Europe, and 14th globally, to legalise gay marriage.

Afghan women walk through the street in KabulAfghan MPs halt women's law debate

The Afghan parliament interrupts debate on a law to prevent violence against women amid angry scenes, with Islamists calling for it to be scrapped.

Nautilus operationDeep sea 'gold rush' moves closer

The prospect of a deep sea "gold rush" opening a controversial new frontier for mining on the ocean floor has moved a step closer.

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