Uzbekistan

Sting Concert Goes Down Well, Though Few Can Attend

Central Asia: Sept '09

Tajik authorities’ tactics for dealing with foreign Islamic groups under scrutiny.

Kyrgyzstan: Hijab Row as New School Year Begins

Headscarf dispute pits secular school system against demands to respect religious freedoms.

End of EU Sanctions Sinks Hope of Change in Uzbekistan

Kyrgyz Reforms Leave President Stronger

Plan for leaner, tighter government seems as much about increasing president’s role as about turning economy round.

Doubts About Kyrgyz Political Reform Plan

Analysts are sceptical that new institutions will make for more democratic decision-making.

Kyrgyz Leader Edges Towards Reform

Economic realities may prod Kurmanbek Bakiev away from autocratic impulses towards reform.

Jail for Another Uzbek Rights Activist

Chinese Boost Presence in Uzbek Market

Grim Month for Azeri Journalists

Jailings and detentions raise fresh concerns over fairness of country’s defamation laws.