Political reform

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

Gia Kharchilava, the UNM candidate who triumphed in Tsalenjikha, on a campaign trail in the lead up to the elections. © Gia Kharchilava's Press Office

Georgia’s Last Opposition Stronghold

With the United National Movement at the helm, the region is now a test for local governance.

11 Feb 22

Nursultan Nazarbayev ruled Kazakstan between 1991 and 2019. Over three decades the former president and his inner circle, accused of corruption and nepotism, have built a cult of personality around him. © elbasy.kz

Kazakstan: Nazarbayev’s Fading Personality Cult

Since 1991, the ex-leader has become identified with the state itself, but his status is now crumbling.

11 Feb 22

A view of central Kazakstan's capital Nur-Sultan, with the 105-metre tall Baiterek tower on the horizon. Previously known as Astana, meaning "capital city" in Kazakh, the city of 1 million was renamed on 20 March 2019 as a tribute to the long-ruling Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev, shortly after his resignation. © Leon Neal - Pool/Getty Images

Kazakstan: Will Nur-Sultan City Be Renamed?

Calls for reinstatement of “Astana” as ex-leader continues to be blamed for legacy of corruption and inequality.

31 Jan 22

President Kasym-Zhomart Tokayev giving a speech in the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan. © Akorda.kz

What Next for Kazakstan?

Leadership promises economic reforms – but does not stint on criticism of elite.

14 Jan 22

The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's Parliament, approved a bill aimed at limiting the influence of oligarchs on September 24, 2021. © Sean Gallup/Getty Images

Ukraine’s Anti-Oligarch Law – Too Much or Too Little?

New bill aims to rein in ultra-rich, but some think it does not address the system empowering them.

20 Oct 21

Igor Dodon, the leader of the Socialist Party, and Vladimir Voronin, the leader of the Communist Party. © Igor Dodon's official facebook page

Moldova: What Next for Pro-Russian Forces?

Political forces regroup after suffering punishing defeat in snap parliamentary elections.

11 Aug 21

A protest following the infamous night of June 20th, when police forcefully dispersed protestors. © Anastasia Mgaloblishvili

Georgia: Amnesty Bill Causes Further Tensions

Activists decry blanket pardon for all those involved in June 2019 protests.

8 Jun 21

Sadyr Zhaparov, Kyrgyzstan's new president. (Photo: Sadyr Zhaparov's Facebook page)

Populist Wins Kyrgyzstan's Presidential Election

Critics fear this may cost Kyrgyzstan and its people dearly.

14 Jan 21

Maia Sandu in her press briefing as elected president at PAS Headquarters, November 16, 2020. (Photo: Madalin Necsutu)

New President Boosts Moldova's European Path

But without snap elections, majority coalition likely to block reforms.

24 Nov 20

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