UN Torture Envoy Says Concerned About Iran

In the wake of the UN Human Rights Council's recent session on Iran, Manfred Nowak, the UN's special rapporteur on torture, talked about his attempts to visit Tehran and his efforts to make governments around the world take better care of their detainees. More

'Forbes': Number Of New Billionaires Reflects Global Recovery

"Forbes" magazine's list of the world's billionaires mirrors the global financial recovery. It includes 62 Russians -- nearly twice as many as last year -- most of whom are returning after being knocked off during the economic crisis. More

Afghans, Iranian Honored As 'Women Of Courage'

Ten extraordinary women have been recognized by the U.S. State Department in a ceremony in Washington. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton appeared in person alongside first lady Michelle Obama to praise the group of women that she and her staff have chosen as this year's International Women of Courage. More

Kabul Stuck Between U.S., Iranian 'Double Game' Claims

The verbal jousting between the United States and Iran has provided fodder for debate over whether Iran has Afghanistan's best interests in mind, while placing Kabul in an uncomfortable position between its two allies. More

Tide Of Protest Engulfs More Russian Cities

Penza has become the latest Russian city to join the tide of protests that has swept the country in recent months. Some 2,000 people gathered in the central Russian city to protest low pay, surging prices, and an ineffectual local government. More

Prague's One World Festival Puts Focus On Iran 

The One World International Human Rights Documentary Film Festival, which will show over 100 films from 30 countries in Prague from March 10-18, has a special focus on Iran this year. More

Garry Kasparov Talks About Putin's Endgame

Former world chess champion and current Kremlin gadfly Garry Kasparov sat down recently with RFE/RL Azerbaijani Service correspondent Ibragim Bayamduroglu to talk about the Russian political landscape. In a wide-ranging interview, Kasparov interprets Vladimir Putin's vision, cites a Russian tendency toward authoritarianism and its effect on the region, and skewers the idea of a "pro-Russian" Ukrainian president. More

EU's Ashton Puts Focus On Neighborhood

Catherine Ashton, the EU's high representative for foreign policy, told the European Parliament in Strasbourg today reforms in the bloc's immediate neighborhood will be her key priority and will be vital in furthering the bloc's ambition to play a greater role in the world. More

In Marjah, New Gains Could Offer Escape From Tragic Past

Locals see a window of opportunity in the wake of a recent offensive in Marjah, which for years served as an insurgent stronghold in southern Afghanistan. More