Afghanistan

Choking on Air Pollution

High levels of dust and fumes prompt UN to launch a year-long study of air quality.

Reforming Police Will Take Time

Although training programmes are currently under way, it may take years to restore public confidence in the police.

Voter Registration Lags in North

With only a sixth of eligible voters in northern provinces registered so far, elections scheduled for September may have to be postponed again.

Leaders in the North Look Ahead

Most are upbeat about forthcoming elections and the prospects for peace and stability in their country.

Mothers Pay Price for Bearing Girls

In this traditional society, daughters are often seen as a burden on a family.

Girls' Schools Become Targets

Conservative Islamists opposed to women's education stage a string of attacks across the country.

NGOs Come Under Scrutiny

Afghanistan's leaders are ready to accept foreign assistance to rebuild

Chechen President's Men a Law Unto Themselves

Presidential security service viewed as a dangerous irregular force whose loyalties remain unclear.

Bird Flu Causes Alarm

The government calls for a halt to chicken imports, and local traders say sales are sharply down.

Women Sing Softly on TV