The results of a DNA study suggest that dogs were domesticated in Europe.

Brazil says the rate of deforestation in the Amazon increased by 28% between August 2012 and last July, after four years of steady decline.

Alejandro Lawless, a former Argentine army officer jailed for crimes against humanity committed under military rule, has escaped from custody.

Gambia has announced that it has cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan, amid China's growing influence on the continent.

Toronto Mayor Rob Ford apologises for obscene comments he made on live TV while denying he made sexual overtures to a female staff member.

Venezuela's National Assembly paves the way to enabling President Nicolas Maduro to rule by special decree for a period of 12 months.

More than six tons of confiscated ivory including tusks, carvings and jewellery have been crushed in public in the US state of Colorado.

Twelve supporters of Egypt's ousted President Morsi are jailed over unrest at Al-Azhar university, as a state of emergency comes to an end.