Land of Plenty in Crisis
Upriver dams cause influx of salt water that’s destroying crops and killing livestock in once verdant Basra region.
17 Nov 09
Middle East
Spoof of Georgian Patriarch Sparks Row
Orthodox leader at the centre of argument over whether the church is too involved in public life.
13 Nov 09
Kurdish Fighter's Bittersweet Retirement
Elderly ex-guerrilla struggles as street vendor to stave off penury.
12 Nov 09
New Lease of life for Capital's Book Market
Book enthusiasts returns to legendary Al-Muttanbi street, two years after bombing.
10 Nov 09
Watermelons Replace Bombs on Road to Baghdad
Recent journey along infamous highway invites comparisons with edgier passage at height of insurgency.
10 Nov 09
Early Marriages Worry Azerbaijan Officials
Unscrupulous mullahs accused of marrying young girls whose health and education then suffer.
6 Nov 09
Women Learn to Mask Loss of Virginity
Cheap artificial hymen resolves social stigma in society that frowns on premarital sex.
6 Nov 09
Fear of Damascus Regime Stymies Protest
Recent minibus driver strike rare protest in country where majority daren’t consider collective action to improve their lives.
6 Nov 09
Bombing Atrocity Threatens Iraqi Elections
Concerns that violence could deter voters in upcoming polls come amid widespread anger at government’s security failings.
5 Nov 09
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