Uzbeks Loosen Banking Restrictions
Liberalising the rules for bank accounts may not be enough to restore savers’ confidence in the financial system.
12 Mar 08
Central Asia
Fears of GM Crop Invasion in Kyrgyzstan
Unregulated imports of genetically modified seeds and foods raise concerns about public health and biodiversity.
7 Mar 08
Kazak Hospitals Suffer Winter Drugs Shortage
Government legislation leads to January gap in pharmaceuticals supply.
29 Feb 08
Kyrgyz Teachers Win Court Case on Unpaid Wages
Schoolteachers are refusing to accept a government offer of bonds to settle unpaid bonuses.
22 Feb 08
Uzbek Amnesty Designed to Please West
While rights groups welcome the amnesty offered to several activists, they do not believe it marks a real change in policy.
22 Feb 08
Halting Progress on Turkmen Reforms
In a series of wide-ranging interviews, IWPR has learned that people remain sceptical about their new president’s real intentions, although they are grateful pensions are being paid and schooling improved.
21 Feb 08
Central Asia's Poorest States in Crisis
After a freezing winter marked by severe energy shortages, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan fear spring could bring food shortages as well.
18 Feb 08
Kazakstan: Lavish Weddings Ruin Uzbek Families
As a extravagant ceremonies impoverish the community, campaigners are urging changes in the law.
13 Feb 08
Uzbek Police Keep Eagle Eye on Banks
Despite claims that money now flows freely through the banks, the secret police still routinely inspect transfers from abroad.
12 Feb 08
Tajik Reshuffle Spares Unpopular Energy Chiefs
Many people are furious that no heads have rolled in the state power company after some of the most severe electricity shortages in years.
8 Feb 08
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