Middle East

Turkmenistan: Pressed into Service

Recruiters will take anyone, no matter how unfit, to fill the ranks of an army whose main job is to provide a free labour force.

8 Sep 06

Many of the capital’s residential neighbourhoods are in the grip of Muslim extremists.

7 Sep 06

The controversial commander Abdul Rashid Dostum has little chance of winning votes outside his own constituency.

1 Sep 06

Candidate promises to tackle what he sees as pervasive corruption and abuse of power.

1 Sep 06

Former guerrilla leader survived Taleban death threats to stand in the current election.

1 Sep 06

Abdul Latif Pedram comments on marital issues and federalism have sparked sharp debate.

1 Sep 06

The Taleban leader may be out of power but some in authority today continue his repressive policies.

1 Sep 06

Following an outbreak of violence in Herat, the Afghan president tries to retain the support of an important warlord.

1 Sep 06

Hazara gunmen could scupper efforts to return displaced Tajiks and Pashtuns to Bamyan.

1 Sep 06

Hundreds flock to Erbil in hope of unconventional cure for their dental problems.

29 Aug 06

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