Just 25 percent of Americans say it's very or extremely important that a candidate has strong religious beliefs, according to the poll.

Afghan rights workers warned Tuesday that the U.S. national security adviser's blistering attack on the International Criminal Court investigating war crimes allegations will strengthen a climate of impunity in Afghanistan, prolong the war and embolden those carrying out acts of violence.

The country that is home to the Nobel prizes and militarily neutral policies for the better part of two centuries has been known for its comparatively open doors to migrants and refugees.

China's government is ratcheting up a crackdown on Christian congregations in Beijing and several provinces, destroying crosses, burning bibles, shutting churches and ordering followers to sign papers renouncing their faith, according to pastors and a group that monitors religion in China.

A failure to expand access to higher education will widen the gap between the fortunate few and the disenfranchised many.

Since hearings began on Sept. 4, they have been marked by daily interruptions—in the audience and from the dais.