Middle East
Karimov U-turn on Islam
President Karimov is reversing his government's once tolerant attitude towards Islam
Kyrgyz Anger Over Business Scandals
Bishkek politicians fume over officials' collusion with dodgy Turkish businessmen
West Hints at Taliban Recognition Deal
Only Osama bin Laden appears to stand in the way of Western recognition of the Taliban
Astana Eager for Oil Profits
Kazakstan is keen to exploit growing interest in its Caspian oil fields
US Campaign Poses Threat to Central Asia
Washington's quest for allies in its war on terrorism risks democracy and human rights across Central Asia.
Afghanistan: Buddha Caves Provide Refuge
Hundreds of homeless Afghan families find shelter amid the ruins of the Bamiyan Buddhas
Tajikistan: Islamic Party Slams Banned Rival
Central Asia’s only legal Islamic party polishes its image by attacking clandestine group.
Moscow Extradites Controversial Tajik Politician
Russia sends former interior minister back to uncertain fate in Tajikistan.
Kyrgyz Sex Trade Flourishes
The sex trade in Kyrgyzstan has become a big business that the authorities are powerless to stop