With Emperor Akihito’s historic abdication approaching, here’s a look at his accomplishments and what to expect from the next emperor, Crown Prince Naruhito.

An outbreak in the DRC has spread to neighboring Uganda, and conflict and mistrust of health workers is impeding international efforts to contain the disease.

The United States has been helping Somalia fight al-Shabab militants for more than a decade, but rights groups say increasing drone strikes are putting civilians at risk.

Iran appears increasingly boxed in by intensifying U.S. sanctions, the latest of which will effectively cut it off from its main oil customers.

The Giant of Africa’s next president will have to contend with daunting security and economic challenges.