The Omicron variant might be one of the first real immunoescape variants, says Professor Adam Grundhoff of the Leibniz Institute of Experimental Virology. It could therefore re-infect people who have been vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19.

The vaccine-maker's CEO says existing COVID-19 vaccines are unlikely to be as effective against omicron. Meanwhile, Japan detected its first case of the variant. Follow DW for the latest.

Panjshir Valley became known as the last bastion of the anti-Taliban resistance as the militants swept to power in Afghanistan in August. But it was only a matter of weeks before Panjshir too would fall into Taliban control. Once a bustling hub of activity, Panjshir is now largely deserted. The few residents who have stayed are now under constant surveillance, and are struggling to survive amid a crippling economic crisis. Sonia Ghezali, Shahzaib Wahlah and Solène Chalvon Fioriti report.

Millions of domestic workers in Africa continue to work under sometimes appalling conditions with very little pay. Trade unionists are now calling to integrate them into the formal sector.

One pill during a pregnancy was enough, resulting in thousands of children worldwide born with severe deformities. In 1961, the manufacturer took thalidomide off the market. Survivors are still living with its effects.

This week, we take you behind the scenes of one of Paris’ most beautiful landmarks: the Pantheon. A symbol of France’s values and collective memory, the mausoleum houses the remains of some of the country’s most esteemed men and women. On November 30, the Franco-American performer Josephine Baker will be reinterred there. But this selection requires more than just excellence. The choice is at the discretion of the President, and the reasons behind it are very political. FRANCE 24 explains.