6. Turkey
Making war since: 1984
Estimated fatalities: More than 35,000
The Kurdistan Workers Party fights for a home for the Kurds of southeastern Turkey by attacking Turkish targets, then melting back into Iraq. Turkey has resisted launching a cross-border strike into Iraq—for now.




7. Myanmar
Making war since: 1949
Estimated fatalities: More than 600,000
The Karen people’s fight for independence from the dictatorship of Myanmar—formerly Burma—is the world’s longest-running civil war. The junta has responded by leveling towns, leaving one million homeless.




8. Afghanistan
Making war since: 2001
Estimated fatalities: 426 U.S. soldiers alone
The post-9/11 U.S. invasion removed the Taliban from power, but today 46,000 NATO- and U.S.-led troops continue to clash with the insurgent rebels. Documents suggest Al Qaeda sanctuaries have increased fourfold.




9. Chechnya
Making war since: 1999
Estimated fatalities: As many as 200,000
Muslim Chechnya fought Russia for independence in 1994. In 1999, Chechen terrorists entered Russian territory, prompting Vladimir Putin, then prime minister, to use force against the region. Rebel attacks continue.




10. Sri Lanka
Making war since: 1983
Estimated fatalities: 67,000
The Tamil Tigers guerrilla group formed to fight for independence in northern Sri Lanka, and bloody violence continued until a 2002 ceasefire. In March, Sri Lankan government troops pushed back into Tiger territory.