Uzbekistan Looks for New Allies
Following its break with the US, Tashkent moves to forge ties with Russia and China.
Following its break with the US, Tashkent moves to forge ties with Russia and China.
The first trial of Andijan “terrorists” looks decidedly staged, but can the government really close off access to other views of what happened.
As pessimists warn that continuing social conflict in Kyrgyzstan is the first sign of state disintegration, the friction may just be a necessary part of building a more democratic society.
Repressive policies from Central Asia governments have done nothing to curb the rise of the banned Islamic party.
Other Central Asian leaders see only chaos and weak leadership in Kyrgyzstan, but they are missing the point – concessions are sign of strength, not weakness.
As suspicions grow about the possible involvement of Tashkent in Alisher Saipov’s death, there is concern that a thorough investigation will prove politically impossible.
As poverty and unemployment drive an increasing number of workers abroad, many become victims of traffickers who sell them into virtual slavery.
Religious fanatics and smugglers have over the years laid waste to Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage.
Tajikistan is desperate to use its hydropower resources - but does it risk causing problems with its Central Asian neighbours if it dams up vital water resources?
The legal obstacles to inviting foreign investors to complete an ambitious hydroelectric scheme have been overcome, but plenty of questions remain about the politics and economics of privatisation.