The Alliance was only formed in May 2011 as a merger of the two main opposition groups, the former governing United Bermuda Party and the Bermuda Democratic Alliance, in an effort to stop splitting the anti-PLP vote.

BBC: Bermuda profile

During the talks, the 144 members of the governing body will be put into seven groups, each headed by a bishop, to consider two papers - one outlining the case for the ordination of women and one setting out the case against.

BBC: Women bishops on agenda for Church in Wales governing body

Foreign money could then be used to fund and facilitate agreements within Italy: new political players and contentious interest groups could be brought into the governing coalitions for a share of the spoils.

NEWYORKER: Booted

European football's governing body UEFA has already rejected calls to move the tournament from pro-Palestine groups including the disputed territory's football association.

CNN: Soccer stars protest Gaza bombing

In the process, the leaders in these councils, who hail from Syria's different religious and ethnic groups, are developing political skills, cultivating local constituencies and learning through trial and error the business of governing.

CNN: A game changer for Syria?

Adnan Pachachi, a leading member of the Governing Council, said at the weekend that until Iraqi forces were able to combat al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups operating in the country, they would still need outside help.

ECONOMIST: Seeking an honourable way out | The