Central Asia

Passport Chaos in Tajikistan

The Tajik authorities withdraw a major concession for migrant workers in Russia shortly after announcing it, apparently because of hostility from nationalist politicians in Moscow.

3 Dec 05

Kazaks Shut Kyrgyz Out Ahead of Vote

Market traders from Kyrgyzstan are deported as Kazakstan tightens security for the presidential election.

3 Dec 05

Alarm Over Intermarriage Health Risks in Tajikistan

Calls for restrictions on weddings between close relatives are falling on deaf ears.

2 Dec 05

Kyrgyzstan: Saving the Constitutional Court

Proposal to do away with a key institution could leave the courts weaker and more vulnerable to political interference, say opponents of the scheme.

2 Dec 05

Kyrgyz Cancer Sufferers Turn to Healers

The lives of many women could be saved if they sought conventional medical treatment.

1 Dec 05

Kazak Opposition Says Election Campaign Unfair

The government has promised the presidential poll will be fair and transparent, but Nursultan Nazarbaev’s opponents are not convinced.

30 Nov 05

Tajikistan: Mental Health Crisis Claims Disputed

Dushanbe residents complain their city is full of people with psychiatric problems, but how true is that perception?

29 Nov 05

Kyrgyz Prosecutor Attacks Media “Distortions”

Tough talk from general prosecutor Kambaraly Kongantiev has sparked fears of censorship.

28 Nov 05

Vetting, Turkmen-Style

Employment policy in Turkmenistan accused of being racist and discriminatory.

26 Nov 05

Hackles Raised Over Dushanbe Development

New hotels could bring jobs and tourists, but not everyone is convinced.