Uzbekistan: Former Mufti Criticises Anti-Islamic Campaign
A respected religious leader has warned that the government's crackdown on Islamic extremism will backfire, radicalising ordinary Muslims.
21 Feb 05
Central Asia
Tajikistan: Villagers Held Hostage by Afghans
Tajiks living near the border with Afghanistan are falling prey to drug dealers who are taking desperate measure to recover debts.
21 Feb 05
Trafficking Link to Bishkek Murders
Investigators believe bizarre killings may have some connection with overseas prostitution racket.
21 Feb 05
Turkmenbashi Made President for Life
Niazov accepts yet another honour, but not everyone in Turkmenistan is celebrating.
21 Feb 05
Uzbekistan: Sex Trade on the Rise
Economic troubles are forcing an increasing number of Samarkand women into prostitution.
21 Feb 05
Tajikistan: Down and Out in Beshkent
Families from the depressed Pamir region who took up a government offer of homes and land elsewhere have faced a series of difficulties.
21 Feb 05
Kyrgyzstan: Embattled Akaev to Share Powers
The increasingly unpopular president has agreed to relinquish some of his authority to parliament, but his opponents are still calling for his resignation.
21 Feb 05
Tensions Mount on Kyrgyz-Uzbek Border
While Bishkek and Tashkent continue to downplay frictions, the increasing
21 Feb 05
Tashkent Lawyers Snub Legal Reforms
Uzbek lawyers fear a further loss of independence over plans to give the Ministry of Justice sole authority over their profession.
21 Feb 05
Tajik Officials Convicted of Torture
Nine officers are sent to prison for using violence to secure confessions, but corruption and poor training mean police criminality is still endemic.
21 Feb 05
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