Afghanistan

Anger Wells up at Poor Water in Northern Afghan City

Residents say failure to deliver on promise of new wells means water-borne diseases continue to plague Charikar.

Female Suicide On Rise in Herat

Officials report 50 per cent rise in self-immolation and poisoning over last year.

Crime Wave Alarms Balkh Residents

Surge in kidnappings and murder has worried locals in what has been a relatively peaceful province.

Afghan Peace Jirga Scepticism

Critics say that participants are too close to the government and do not represent wider Afghan society.

Glimmer of Hope for Gypsy Education?

Officials in Balkh say they’re considering provision of schooling for Afghan Jogi, but community remains distrustful of the authorities.

Women Angry Over Shrine Ban

Balkh women say ban on popular women-only day at holy site is latest in series of repressive measures.

Marja Residents Flee Unrest

Caught between government and Taleban forces, locals say their only choice is to seek refuge elsewhere.

Afghan Execution Protests Anger Iran

Neighbours at odds about reports Afghan refugees have been executed in Iran for trafficking narcotics.

The Drug Courier Children of Herat

Badghis Pistachio Forests Face Destruction

Poverty and a lack of fuel leading people to chop down valuable nut trees.