ISTANBUL — Turks took a step closer to Europe by voting for constitutional changes aimed at bringing the country into line with European standards of democracy. Yet it was also a massive show of confidence in an Islamic-rooted government whose closer ties with Iran and hostility toward Israel have caused dismay in the West.

Documents provide some idea of Kagan’s views on abortion and other hot-button issues

Documents show Kagan a political pragmatist

Kagan memos as Clinton aide touch on abortion limits, religious rights, sentencing guidelines

Kagan memos on abortion limits, religious rights

Supreme Court nominee Kagan, as Clinton aide, defended religion rights in discrimination case

Kagan’s confirmation would be a first in Supreme Court history: 9 justices, 0 Protestants

A new fight over female judges in Egypt stirs old arguments that women not fit for bench

Women judges stir up old debate in Egypt

CAIRO — When women tried to join the bench on Egypt’s top administrative court, the uproar from its judges was fierce. Women are too emotional, they insisted — and who will take care of the family if the mother is busy with the arduous tasks of the courtroom?

Federal appeals court upholds ‘under God’ references in Pledge of Allegiance, currency

Fed. appeals court upholds ‘under God’ in pledge

Woman appointed governor of West Bank’s most important district; joins other trailblazers

Women in charge in West Bank’s key district

Turks step closer to EU with referendum vote, but membership is still a glimmer

Malaysia appoints 1st female Islamic court judges to curb discrimination against women