elections

Merkel Captures Second Term in German Elections

By Larisa Epatko

BERLIN -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel claimed victory for a new center-right government Sunday after elections propelled her Christian Democratic Union party and the pro-business Free Democrats to a majority.

Reporter’s Podcast: Taking Stock of the Taliban’s Strategy in Afghanistan

As the number of U.S. troops and casualties rise in Afghanistan and the popularity for the war declines, lawmakers and military strategists are beginning to wonder whether America has the right strategy in the conflict.

Japan Begins New Era as Voters Oust Ruling Party

Voters in Japan handed a landslide victory to the opposition party that has promised to reverse the nation's struggling economy and to redefine Tokyo's relationship with Washington. Japanese experts reflect on the developments.

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U.S. Commanders Call for More Troops to Defeat Taliban in Afghanistan

By Anna Shoup

As Taliban insurgents refine their tactics, U.S. and NATO commanders told U.S. envoy Richard Holbrooke that they require more troops to combat militants in Afghanistan.

Profiles: Afghanistan’s Presidential Candidates

By Larisa Epatko

Afghan President Hamid Karzai is hoping to win a second five-year term in Thursday's elections, while raucous rallies drew thousands of supporters for the main opposition candidates in the days leading up to the vote.

Myanmar Sentences Suu Kyi to 18 Months

A court in military-ruled Myanmar sentenced democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Tuesday to 18 months under house arrest for allowing an uninvited American to stay at her home.

Elections Mark Possible Turning Point for Kurds

Over the weekend, Kurds across the three northern regions of Iraq went to the polls to elect new leaders. The two parties that have controlled the autonomous region for 20 years faced a powerful challenge from a new opposition party.

Western-backed Bloc Keeps Majority After Lebanese Vote

By PBS News Hour

A Western-backed, anti-Syrian coalition maintained a parliamentary majority in Lebanon after elections Sunday in which some observers had expected to see Hezbollah make gains.

Hezbollah, Pro-Western Blocs at Odds in Lebanese Elections

By PBS News Hour

Lebanon's parliamentary elections on Sunday pit a Western-backed coalition now holding the majority in the government against an Iranian- and Syrian-backed alliance led by Hezbollah.

With Labor Party Reeling, Brown Braces for Leadership Fight

By Admin, PBS News Hour

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown is fighting off a reported campaign to oust him in the wake of a financial scandal that has damaged Labor Party popularity and caused four of his ministers quit.