Central Asia

Tajik Opposition Still Unclear on Election Tactics

Bullying, Extortion Plague Kyrgyz Schools

Abuse of fellow-pupils seen as part of wider culture of lawlessness and violence.

Southern Kyrgyz Mayor Builds on Success

Mayor of Osh splashes out on reconstruction, but some say he favours his own ethnic community.

Central Asia at Risk From Post-2014 Afghanistan

Militant groups could use greater freedom of movement within Afghanistan to target countries to the north, experts say.

Tajikistan's Education Deficit

Kyrgyzstan: Time To Talk About Sex

Government hopes to combat teen pregnancy through programme of sex education in schools.

Tajik Marriage Reform Misfires

Impact felt most in cross-border marriages – not what was intended.

Tajik Islamic Party Seeks Election Partners

Party has large membership but realises it cannot go it alone.

Kazakstan's Youth Groups Bid for Bigger Say in Policy

NGOs say government decisions affecting young people must be designed hand in hand with them, not imposed on them.

More Selection Than Election in Kazak Devolution

Local government heads to be chosen by councils dominated by ruling party.