Law reform

Karlygash Muratova, 90, casts her ballot in Kazakhstan's eastern city of Karaganda. On June 5, Kazakhs overwhelmingly voted in favour of constitutional amendments that de-centralise the decision-making in the oil-and-gas rich Central Asian nation. © IWPR

Kazakstan’s Referendum Unlikely to Bring Change

Citizens said yes to the proposed constitutional amendments, but few believe the state’s hold on power will ease.

8 Jun 22

Viktor Medvechuk, leader of the pro-Russian party Opposition Platform - For Life, was arrested in western Ukraine on 12 April after weeks on the run. © Ukrainian Security Service (SBU)

Ukraine to Outlaw Pro-Russian Political Parties

The detention of key Putin associate may expedite a wider ban on blocs close to the Kremlin.

20 Apr 22

Armenian Opposition Protests Electoral Changes

Claims that the new system is being implemented without proper public consultation and will weaken democracy.

19 Oct 21

Vladimir Vardanyan, the lawmaker who co-authored the new law, makes a case for it during the July 30 session that ratified it. © The National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia Website

Armenia Criminalises Offence

Using foul language or “hurting the dignity” of public figures could lead to up to three months in jail.

17 Aug 21

Armenia Pursues “Astronomical” Fines for Defamation

Warnings that new legislation will have a chilling effect on independent media.

1 May 21

Libyan journalists protest to denounce violence against journalists, on January 20, 2019 in the Libyan capital Tripoli. © Mahmud Turkia/AFP via Getty Images

Libya’s Media Needs Reform

Gaddafi-era laws continue to restrict independent journalism.

9 Feb 21

A discussion between the EU and US ambassadors with the Moldovan government on the New Justice Reform Strategy. © Moldova government website

Moldova May Struggle to Hold Judges to Account

Government has been forced to pay out large sums over human rights rulings.

5 Feb 21

A cabinet meeting held to discuss the referendum. (Photo: Press Office of the Government of Armenia)

Armenia's Constitutional Reform Delayed Indefinitely

Flagship vote put on back burner while country deals with Covid-19.

28 Mar 20

Session in Parliament of Armenia. (Photo: Parliament of Armenia)

Armenia Searches for Solutions to Fake News

Can Yerevan regulate the information field without damaging freedom of speech?

10 Feb 20

The first meeting of the cabinet with Ion Chicu (L) was conducted by the president Igor Dodon (C), on November 15, 2019. (Photo: Moldovan Presidency)

West Doubts Moldova's Commitment to Reform

Tackling corruption and changing the judicial system no longer seems to be Chisinau’s priority.

31 Jan 20

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