A remote region on the border between Karakalpakstan and Turkmenistan has become a stop on the flourishing – if unofficial – trading route between China and the Gulf states. The situation could change as the Uzbek and Turkmen authorities are taking steps
Villagers and workers are leaving low-paying jobs to join the police.
One person is killed as thousands voice their anger at authorities who they believe exploit their misery and do nothing to help them recover from Saddam’s gas attack.
Recriminations follow violent break-up of student demonstration over government stipends.
Despite economic growth in some quarters, extreme poverty is forcing youngsters to pick through trash.
Human rights conditions in Iraq remains dire, says Amnesty International report.
Atwar Bhajat was not the first journalist to have been killed in Iraq, but her murder has shaken many of her colleagues.
Critics say the record of the last government run by Ibrahim al-Jaafari is little recommendation for another term in office.
Rivals of dominant Shia alliance issue demands for share of ministerial power.
