Uzbek-Turkmen Border: Crossing the Wire
Corruption and trigger-happy soldiers blamed for shootings on a remote section of the border.
21 Feb 05
Central Asia
Kyrgyzstan: Soldiers for Hire
Army conscripts are hired out as labour by their officers, who collect an easy but illegal profit.
21 Feb 05
Uzbek Authorities Mount Witchhunt After Unrest
Fear grips Kokand market traders as they await retribution for protest against the authorities.
21 Feb 05
Kazakstan: Gas Pipes Blamed for Fatalities
The three deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning highlight the poor condition of Kazakstan’s gas safety systems
21 Feb 05
New Kyrgyz Political Force Emerging
Opposition is uniting around former allies of President Akaev.
21 Feb 05
Kazak Leader Acts to Head Off Future Challenge
A recent high-profile defection may have spurred President Nazarbaev to take a closer look at his potential opponents.
21 Feb 05
Uzbek Prostitutes Look to New Markets
The economic crisis at home has forced prostitutes to expand their horizons.
21 Feb 05
Unrest Highlights Kyrgyz Prison Concerns
Prisoners stage group protest by slashing their wrists, prompting renewed concern about jail conditions.
21 Feb 05
Kazakstan: Minorities Concerned at Anti-Terror Moves
After the secret service warns of dangers posed by foreign Islamic militants, non-Kazak Muslims fear their communities will be stigmatised.
21 Feb 05
Uzbek Opposition to Boycott Election “Lie”
Parties try to put up candidates for a new-style parliament, but soon realise they don’t stand a chance.
21 Feb 05
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