Central Asia

Farmers Reluctant to Grow Cotton

As farmers in the northern region of Soghd get ready for the planting season, many are unhappy at the prospect of growing cotton when they do not earn enough from it to repay their debts.

Uzbek, Turkmen Officials off to SCO Conference

Central Asia: Feb '09

IWPR debate on closure of US base reflected conflicting views on implications for the country.

New Kyrgyz Law Curbs Babymilk Adverts

A law came into force this month restricting powdered milk adverts, in order to encourage breastfeeding in Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyz Villagers Frown on Divorce

Divorced women continue to face condemnation and ostracism in traditional rural communities in Kyrgyzstan.

Turkmen Media Welcome Fee Reinstatement

Pedestrians Risk Life and Limb on City Roads

Crossing the road in the Kyrgyzstan capital Bishkek is a risky affair because of the heavy and often chaotic traffic.

Turkmen Farmers Wary of Latest Reform Plan

Tougher Rules Won't Stop Uzbek Bootleggers

Job Fairs Slow to Take Off

To ease the homecoming of migrant workers returning from Russia, the Tajik authorities are now holding job fairs in the capital Dushanbe.