Central Asia

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.

Tajikistan to Ban Cousin Marriage

Formal prohibition unlikely to stamp out widespread tradition.

Kazakstan Journalist at Risk of Forcible Psychiatric Treatment

Concerns that hate speech laws are being used to silence anti-corruption campaigner and other government critics.