Civil society

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. © Davit Mdzinarishvili/IWPR

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. © N. Shahmarzade

Fighting for Women’s Rights in Azerbaijan

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

19 May 21

Protestors gather in Kutaisi for another rally against the Namakhvani hydropower plant. © Sandro Beraia

Georgia: Protests Against New Power Plant Continue

Tbilisi hopes that 800 million US dollar investment will boost energy security and provide jobs, but activists say the risks are enormous.

18 Mar 21

Household chores and childcare are still very much considered to be women’s duties in Kazakstan and many have found it impossible to balance work and childcare responsibilities during the pandemic. © Uriel Sinai/Getty Images

Kazakstan: The Invisible Burden of Lockdown

From household tasks to labour rights, the pandemic has aggravated endemic gender inequality.

8 Mar 21

Parts of the building housing the parliament and president's office were set alight during the night.

Bishkek: The Day After a Historic Night

Volunteers rally to clean up city, ensure security and prevent looting.

6 Oct 20

Karim Suleymanli, who was beaten and detained by the police. (Photo courtesy of K. Suleymanli)

Azerbaijan: Anger Over Police Heavy-Handedness

Public outcry after footage emerges of officers beating man for violating lockdown.

22 Jun 20

Ani Samsonyan from the opposition party Bright Armenia. (Photo courtesy of A. Samsonyan)

Hate Speech: Armenian Leaders Set Bad Example

Civil society groups call for the political echelons to rein in their rhetoric.