The Yezidi minority has so far stayed well out of Iraq’s internecine battles, but violence with their Muslim neighbours has escalated following the murder of a girl who apparently converted to Islam.
The wearing of the Hijab, or veil, a traditional Muslim custom, denounced as repressive by many, is being observed by increasing numbers of women in Iraq.
Campaigners urge an end to the practice of exchange marriage which, although in decline, continues to destroy the lives of young girls.
Hard-pressed staff daily confront the horrors of local bloodletting.
Questions asked about whether bullying in the Azerbaijani army prompted three soldiers to cross the front line.
Schools in the Kurdish north are encouraging adult education for women who never had a chance to go to school when they were young.
Al-Mada is issued daily by Al-Mada Institution for Media, Culture and Arts.
Al-Mashriq is published daily by the Al-Mashriq Institution for Media and Cultural Investments.
