Central Asia

Kazakstan's Pension Bill Postponed

Government backs down on controversial bill after pressure from women’s groups.

Moscow Ponders Central Asian Security, Stability

NATO withdrawal from Afghanistan adds urgency to Russian policymaking, regional expert says.

Protests Put Pressure on Kyrgyz Authorities

Government's opponents are using local grievances to pursue their own interests, analysts say.

Tajik Government Takes Out Critics

Authorities seem to fear Moscow is considering a replacement for the current president.

Uzbeks Steer Clear of Regional Afghan Response

Russia and three Central Asian states are pledging stronger defence cooperation, but Uzbekistan is having none of it.

Tajikistan Seeks Role in Afghan Stabilisation

Kyrgyz Government Faces Grilling on Economy

Deputy premier welcomes criticism, urges legislators to look at good news as well.

Tajiks, Kyrgyz Grapple With Frontier Issues

Recent clash shows how niggling resentments can suddenly explode.

Emerging Force in Tajik Politics Arrested

Former minister Zayd Saidov faces a range of charges a month after he launched a political party.

Kazakstan Shrugs Off Human Rights Concerns

Economics count for more than rights, and western governments have little leverage anyway.