Central Asia

Turkmen to Sign New Gas Deal with Iran

EU Eases Uzbek Sanctions Despite Reporter's Jailing

European officials speak of progress three days after independent journalist gets ten-year jail term.

Central Asia: Sep ‘08

IWPR joins forces with other NGOs to raise concerns over media censorship in Uzbekistan – prompting a hostile response from the authorities.

Kyrgyz Political Elite Hit by Infighting

Beneath surface of a simple personnel switch there is layer upon layer of political and regional rivalries.

Uzbeks Forced to Cut Cotton Exports

Afghanistan: Sep ‘08

Kabul government clamps down on trading centre after IWPR report revealed arms-for-drugs transactions.

Tajikistan: Less Food on the Table

Farming sector now so unproductive that even Tajik specialities like fruit are being imported.

Uzbek Cotton Farmers Face Prosecution

Kyrgyz Quake Raises Questions Over Shoddy Buildings

Following lethal earthquake, experts warn many more lives could be at risk as builders ignore safety standards.

Kyrgyzstan: Islamic Protest Sparked by Official Insensitivity

Analysts say government needs to do more to stop Islamic radicals channelling grassroots discontent.