Kyrgyzstan
China's Road Into Kyrgyzstan
The Kyrgyz truck drivers and market traders who have benefited from trade routes to their eastern neighbour are less enthusiastic about the growing Chinese role in the local economy.
Critics Blast Plan to Restrict Rallies in Kyrgyz Capital
The mayor’s decision to ban public meetings outside three designated spots in Bishkek has been criticised as anti-democratic by rights activists and opposition parties.
Kyrgyz TV Reform Falters Ahead of Polls
After most board members resign from the new-look national TV station, critics say the Kyrgyz leadership is obstructing the emergence of an independent broadcaster.
Tajikistan: Repressive Religious Law in the Pipeline
Proposed legislation would make it harder for smaller faith groups to operate.
Jury Out on Kyrgyz Islamists
Little consensus on whether group claiming to want to improve Islamic education poses a danger.
Voting System Still Flawed as Kyrgyz Head for Referendum
The system by which voters will decide the fate of a new constitution is obsolete and open to abuse, analysts say.