Afghanistan
Afghans Head for the Mall
A glittering complex housing a hotel and nearly 100 expensive shops is a source of wonder for Kabul residents.
Insurgents Impose Curbs on Women
Those who put on makeup or choose not to wear the veil fall victim to militants.
Uzbekistan: Andijan Residents “Tortured”
Locals said to have suffered beatings and sexual abuse during police questioning following May uprising.
Tajikistan: Border Bridge to Boost Economy
Big increase in movement of goods between Tajikistan and Afghanistan envisaged once new frontier link complete.
Water Problems in Tajikistan
Flooding aggravates problems caused by Tajikistan’s substandard water treatment facilities.
Tajikistan Moves Against “Incomer” Faiths
Government slaps ban on three missionary organisations as local clerics voice hostility to the newcomers.
Tajik Health Scare
The health ministry blames dysentery or food poisoning for an infectious disease that has claimed several lives, but a suspicious public fears it is something worse.
A Star is Born
Fourteen-year-old Marina Gulbahari defies the odds by gaining rave reviews in her first movie and defies convention by deciding to pursue a film career.