Central Asia

Lighter Penalties for Tajik Youth Offenders

New law makes it easier for courts to impose fines instead of custodial sentences, but young offenders are unlikely to be able to pay.

Punishing Juvenile Offenders in Turkmenistan

Kyrgyzstan: Protests on Demand

Marginalised groups serve as rent-a-mob demonstrators whenever the country is convulsed by unrest.

Turkmen-Afghan Ties Based Mainly Around Trade

Reporter in Libel Trial in Uzbekistan

Kyrgyzstan Goes to Donors for Post-Unrest Aid

Funding details to be confirmed after election produces new government.

Tajik Government to Tax Lucrative Phone Businesses

New tax likely to be passed on cash-strapped consumers, experts say.

Tajik Disablement Laws Obstruct Access to Jobs

Categorisation as “unfit for work” bars people who would otherwise be keen to enter employment.

Traditional Courts in Kyrgyzstan

Uzbek Petrol Shortages “Artificial”