Middle East

Under the Veil - Choice or Coercion?

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.

Cleaning up the Kura

The major river in the southern Caucasus seems to be everyone’s dumping ground.

Brides Pay High Price

Campaigners urge an end to the practice of exchange marriage which, although in decline, continues to destroy the lives of young girls.

Mosul: Victims Pile Up at City Morgue

Hard-pressed staff daily confront the horrors of local bloodletting.

Karzai Talks Tough in Helmand

The president delivers a tough-love speech in the troubled province, calling on residents to take responsibility for their own security.

Kovacevic appeal, Simic transfer, Zvornik trial, Kadijevic warrant and Bralo appeal.

Georgia Creates Army Reserves

The president wants the capacity to call up 100,000 men.

Hizb ut-Tahrir Emboldened in Kyrgyzstan

Islamic group uses various tactics to seek publicity despite being under a ban.

Afghanistan's Poppy Conundrum

This year’s eradication campaign in Helmand seems to be accomplishing little except beefing up support for the Taleban.

Heading Home to Uncertainty

Iraqi returnees find it difficult to resume their old lives.