Veteran anti-independence leader Gaston Flosse is back in charge in French Polynesia, but ongoing corruption charges mean that his tenure is far from assured.
Some Malaysian numbers to ponder
An analysis of Malaysia's electoral results shows how the government won. (Hint: it wasn't by winning more votes.)
A dubious victory for Malaysia’s government
Prime minister Najib Tun Razak has been re-elected in Malaysia, but even with all the advantages of a compliant electoral system it's doubtful whether he won the majority of votes.
Could Ireland get a normal party system?
An unsuccessful vote on same-sex marriage in Northern Ireland demonstrates Sinn Féin's willingness to defy the Catholic church, raising hopes that Ireland may be on the way to a less sectarian party system.
Fruitcake fringe poses problems for Cameron
Local elections in the UK don't tell you a great deal. But whatever their message is this week, it's bad for David Cameron.
Election preview: Malaysia
Tomorrow brings what is probably Malaysia's most competitive ever election. As usual, Australia's support for democracy is at best lukewarm.
Bush v. Gore revisited: what might have been
Sandra Day O'Connor, who indirectly gave us the Iraq war and much else, now seems to regret her role. Better late than never.
Are they real WMDs this time?
Here we go again – weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East. If Syria has really started using them, that's a big problem.
So near yet so far in Venezuela
Fresh results from the Venezuelan election show the opposition narrowing the gap, but not nearly enough. Everyone concerned needs to chill out.
Netanyahu not interested in peace – what a surprise
Another disappointment in the quest for Middle East peace as Israel refuses to engage with a fresh offer from the Arab League.
The World is Not Enough 