The late-pope's gradual decline raised a host of ethical questions about how much physical suffering the pontiff had to endure at the end of his life while also remaining in the public spotlight.

WSJ: Pope Benedict XVI to Resign

Second, are the most indebted countries ready to endure economic pain wage cuts, the end of cherished benefits and the imposition of labour-market reforms to balance the books and encourage growth?

ECONOMIST: Charlemagne: The name's Bond. Eurobond | The