Caucasus

What Chance of a Thaw?

Cautious optimism that Saparmurat Niazov’s heirs will slowly begin moving forward towards reforms.

Tajiks Squeezed by Russian Clampdown on Traders

New legislation hits vulnerable migrant labour from Central Asia’s poorest republic.

Death of Editor Shocks Armenia

Foca Rape Suspect Pleads Guilty

Bosnian Serb soldier admits to raping and torturing Muslim women and girls during the 1992-95 war.

Azerbaijan and Russia at Loggerheads

Neither side willing to back down in energy dispute.

Kazakstan: Masimov May Signal New Reform Priorities

Appointment of new prime minister could represent a shift from economic to political reforms, say analysts.

Chechnya: Children for Sale

Social taboos and economic desperation fuel child trafficking.

Armenia: Potato Democracy

Politicians’ charitable activities - which include handing out potatoes - are dismissed by some as attempts to win over voters.

Karachai-Cherkessia: President Under Pressure

Verdict in high-profile trial brings more protests against local leader.

Ossetia: Tangerine Protest Ends

Authorities break up politically embarrassing border demo.