In a series of wide-ranging interviews, IWPR has learned that people remain sceptical about their new president’s real intentions, although they are grateful pensions are being paid and schooling improved.
After a freezing winter marked by severe energy shortages, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan fear spring could bring food shortages as well.
Despite claims that money now flows freely through the banks, the secret police still routinely inspect transfers from abroad.
Many people are furious that no heads have rolled in the state power company after some of the most severe electricity shortages in years.
Sixteen years after independence, thousands of Uzbeks from the border districts of Turkmenistan remain without passports.
The West may have sound practical reasons for re-engaging with the Uzbek regime but activists say it’s certainly not helping democracy.
Unusually harsh winter conditions have frozen up the gas supply to homes, schools and offices.
President’s decision to unveil his own ideology marks another step away from the personality cult fostered by his predecessor.
Training sessions across the region lead to rise in volume and quality of output.
Government’s plan to build up food reserves may prevent a repeat of last year’s price hikes, but sceptics say the country needs to grow more grain.
