Caucasus
Astana Eager for Oil Profits
Kazakstan is keen to exploit growing interest in its Caspian oil fields
Karzai Balancing Act
Afghan leader Hamid Karzai must ensure that his improving relations with India do not alienate Pakistan.
Uzbekistan: Journalists Abused by Mob of Women
Police "incite" market women into attacking journalists trying to cover Hizb-ut-Tahrir demonstration.
Turkmenistan: Diplomatic Defection Sparks Turmoil
Trouble looms for president Niazov as key envoy joins opposition
Kazakstan: Lethal Trade in Fake Medicine
In spite of ban on unauthorised drug sales, Kazaks continue to buy potions from market traders - sometimes with deadly results.
Kyrgyz Brain Drain
The ongoing economic crisis is driving many talented and highly qualified young people abroad.
Tajikistan: Free Press in Financial Crisis
Upcoming curbs on advertising could finish off many independent papers.
Kazakstan: President-in-Waiting?
New party set up by President Nazarbaev’s daughter likely to lead in this year’s parliamentary election.
Velvet Discrimination in Kyrgyzstan
Some Russians say they no longer feel they belong, as parliament debates a law to give Kyrgyz language a greater role.