Caucasus

Azerbaijan: College Closure Sparks Hunger Strike

Students at private college challenge authorities’ bid to squeeze non-state higher education sector.

Zelenovic Puts Off Entering Plea

(TU No 457, 16-Jun-06)

Bride Theft Rampant in Southern Georgia

The ancient tradition of bride-stealing undergoes a revival despite tougher legislation and efforts by women’s rights groups.

North Ossetia Plundered Of Its Golden Age

The authorities stand accused of inaction as grave-robbers raid ancient sites for gold treasures.

Armenia: Waiting for Lenin

How an Armenian village chose communism, after the Soviet Union had ended.

Armenia's Communist Haven

Curtains for Azerbaijan's Theatres?

Doubts raised about new law designed to help revive the country’s struggling theatres.

Progress in Abkhaz Peace Talks

The fact that Tbilisi and Sukhum come up with new peace initiatives is seen as a positive step, even if they continue to disagree on most issues.

Discontent With Beslan Trial

Survivors of the school siege say officials should answer for negligence which contributed to the high casualty rate.

Chechnya: Living with a Vengeance

War has triggered a new kind of revenge killing, but peace could make it even worse.