Central Asia

Children Forced to Pick Cotton in South Kazakstan

Parents say schools are sending youngsters into the fields despite official ban on child labour.

Privatisation Fears for Kyrgyz Power Plants

Government critics suspect changes to law designed to allow key power stations to be sold off by stealth.

Uzbek Opposition Leader Released into Changed World

With little popular support, Sanjar Umarov hoped the West would back his calls for political change, but this proved illusory.

Where is Turkmenistan's Gas Money Going?

Public-Service Ads Rare on Turkmen TV

Turkmen NGO Struggle Highlighted

Rights campaigners welcome IWPR report on registration problems faced by Turkmen NGOs.

Reporter Shortlisted for Regional Prize

Kyrgyz contributor selected as finalist in Asian journalism award for an article on controversial privatisations in her country.

West Helped Secure Uzbek Opposition Leader's Release

Helicopter Rumour Refuses to Die

Many Afghans believe foreign forces providing support for insurgents in the north.

Power Struggle Threatens Central Asian Electricity Grid

Defections from regional distribution network may destroy Soviet-era effort to ensure equitable sharing of electricity.