Conflict

A suicide car bomb exploded close to the interior ministry in central Baghdad on December 26, killing five. (Photo: Ahmed al-Baghdadi)

Shia Casualties Rise After American Withdrawal

Most of those killed in spate of attacks since December exit have been Shia.

21 Jan 12

Confrontation between a female opposition activist and a group of pro-government demonstrators in 2009. (Photo: Timur Rayimkulov; courtesy of Kloop.kg)

Rent-a-Mob Protests in Central Asia

In Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, police and politicians recruit women as professional campaigners or just as troublemakers.

6 Jan 12

Rising Opium Production in Helmand

Farmers shift to growing poppy in areas where official counter-narcotics programme doesn’t reach.

3 Jan 12

Licensed Banditry in Helmand

Armed employees of local security firms accused of robbery and worse.

17 Dec 11

Broad Welcome for US Pact Decision in Afghanistan

Opposition complains that special assembly was unconstitutional.

1 Dec 11

Respite for Troubled Afghan Province

People in Uruzgan say security situation definitely getting better.

23 Nov 11

Bridge connecting Afghan town of Hairatan with Termez in Uzbekistan – a key transit route. (Photo: Bundeswehr-Fotos/Flickr)

Uzbek Rail Blast Sparks Terror Fears

22 Nov 11

This home in Chiragli was destroyed in the conflict and never rebuilt. (Photo: Orhan Orhanov)

Lives on the Line in Azerbaijan

Villagers eke out existence along "line of control" facing Armenian-held territory.

15 Nov 11

This is the spot where police captain Gaziz Baytasov, the last of seven people killed, died when the gunman blew himself up. (Photo: Larisa Taranova)

Southern Kazak City Reels From Shooting Spree

Prosecutors say dead gunman had Islamist links.

14 Nov 11

Residents of Taraz lay flowers at on of the locations where police officers were killed by a suspected Islamic militant. (Photo: Larisa Taranova)

Does Kazakstan Attack Reflect Rising Militancy?

Suspected Islamist kills seven, blows himself up.