Civil society

January 5, 2022 Kazak government declared a nationwide state of emergency after protests over a fuel price hike erupted into clashes and saw demonstrators storm government buildings. © ABDUAZIZ MADYAROV/AFP via Getty Images

Kazak Human Rights Activists Fear Crackdown

Experts predict further prosecutions and tightened censorship in the wake of unrest.

13 Jan 22

Ukrainian soldiers walk past destroyed buildings on the front line on December 8, 2021 in Marinka, Ukraine. A build-up of Russian troops along the border with Ukraine has heightened worries that Russia intends to invade the Donbas region © Brendan Hoffman/Getty Images

Ukrainians Fatalistic Amid Fears of Russian Invasion

“Where could we flee? We have nothing to lose.”

12 Jan 22

A woman holds the sign "Women are Dying, Ratify the Convention" during a demonstration in front of Moldova's Parliament in the capital Chisinau, ahead of the vote to endorse the Istanbul Convention. © Tatiana Kebak

Moldova Ratifies Istanbul Convention Amid Disinformation and Opposition

Conservative parties obstructed its adoption for supposedly eroding “traditional family values”.

14 Dec 21

In September Kazakhstan's parliament pushed a draft bill that would require foreign tech companies to register local branches or risk being blocked. Rights groups say that, if approved, it will hinder social media activities and further limit free speech in the country. © CABAR

Kazak State Tightens Grip on Social Media

Rights groups fear that a bill framed to safeguard children could limit free speech and intensify government control.

19 Nov 21

The Kamaz lorries were given to Sokhumi through a Russian-financed programme. Sokhumi is 80 km away from Gali. © Lana Kokaia

Georgia: Landfill Overwhelms Gali Village

Ethnic Georgians say that the de facto Abkhazia government is using their land as a dumping ground.

8 Oct 21

Activists in Azerbaijan warn that violence against women is rising. © Freepic

Azerbaijan: “Half-Hearted” State Policy Blamed for Gender Violence

Officials accuse campaigners of politicising the issue to suit their own agenda.

2 Sep 21

Spyware is loosely defined as malicious software designed to enter your computer device, gather data about you, and forward it to a third-party without your consent. © Freepic

Azerbaijan: Pegasus Spyware Perfect Fit for Regime Intimidation

Illicitly obtained data has long been used to intimidate and blackmail independent voices.

31 Aug 21

Kyrgyzstan: Controversial NGO Law Passes

Government accused of shrinking space for civil society with onerous legislation.

19 Jul 21

An angry mob injured more than 50 journalists during the planned Tbilisi Pride march.

Tblisi Pride Organisers Accuse Government of Incitement

Rally cancelled after scenes of mob violence by counter-protestors.

8 Jul 21

Narmin Shahmarzadeh, a psychologist and activist, at a women's rights rally in Azerbaijan.

Fighting for Women’s Rights in Azerbaijan

Equality legislation is not matched by social attitudes – or state support.

19 May 21

Support our journalists

Donate