Central Asia

Cautious Welcome for Islamic Banking

Under new rules approved late last month, banks in Kyrgyzstan can run their operations according to Islamic financial principles if they want to.

Outrage at Jail Term for Karakalpak Eco-Official

No Legal Rights for Second Wives

Women who enter into Muslim marriages as second or third wives have no rights to property under Tajikistan’s secular laws, which do not allow polygamy.</p><p>

Water Access Key Concern for Tajik Border Villages

Kamari Ahrorzoda reports from the Tajik village of Hojai Alo, where residents say they are denied access to water and pasture lands.</p><p>

Kyrgyz, Tajiks Place High Value on Scrap of Land

Debate over Tajiks giving Kyrgyz a short stretch of road places spotlight on broader questions of land and borders in Fergana Valley.

Aral Sea Meeting Set for April 28

Judicial Reforms Yet to Have Impact in Uzbekistan

Schools Put to the Test

Pupils in their penultimate year of school are being tested under an international assessment scheme in which Kyrgyzstan fared badly last time round.

Uzbeks to Pay More for Heating

Uzbeks Seek Funding for Major Road Project