Central Asia

No Surprises From Local Elections

Kazaks Seek Higher Fees for Gas Transit

Accreditation Only for Selected Reporters

Pros and Cons of Trial by Jury

Free Gifts Come at a Cost

Citizens of Turkmenistan are sceptical about President Saparmurat Niazov’s announcement that they will continue receiving free electricity, gas, water and salt until 2030. In reality, the limited scale of these benefits means people pay for all these thin

Turkmenistan's Tightly Controlled Election

Candidates for the December 3 elections to district (etrap) and municipal councils underwent a dual process of screening by local government and the Ministry of National Security, MNB.

NGO Sector Under Scrutiny

Child Labour Belies Talk of Rights

Summit Fails to Deliver Roadmap for CIS Reform

Making Kyrgyzstan's Constitutional Reform Stick

The new constitution offers a real prospect of more accountable government, but political leaders may try to undermine the reform.