Afghanistan: Heroin Trade Dilemma
If the new Afghan government bows to international pressure to ban poppy cultivation the economic consequences could be catastrophic.
22 Feb 05
Central Asia
Kyrgyzstan: Clan Loyalties Mar Local Elections
Peasants vote along tribal lines in disappointing experiment in local democracy.
22 Feb 05
Kyrgyzstan: Uproar Over Detained Deputy
Protests are growing in Kyrgyzstan at the arrest of a parliamentarian who criticised the president over territorial concessions to neighboring countries.
22 Feb 05
Uzbek Police Abuse Scandal
Police officers suspected of fatal beatings are put on trial after public outrcy.
22 Feb 05
Turkmenistan: Niazov Tightens Borders
Concerns over drug smuggling appear to be behind Turkmenistan's decision to tighten border security.
22 Feb 05
Kazak Villagers Go It Alone
Ignored by the authorities in Astana, two Kazak villages have chosen to express their grievances in a rather unorthodox way.
22 Feb 05
Kyrgyzstan: Mixed Reactions to US Base
Locals are divided over the US military build-up around Manas airport
22 Feb 05
Uzbekistan: Karimov Seeks Extended Term
Uzbek analysts warn extension of Karimov presidency could derail the democratisation process.
22 Feb 05
Kyrgyzstan: Children with Nowhere to Go
The Kyrgyz authorities are turning a blind eye to the increasing number of street children in the southern city of Jalalabad.
22 Feb 05
Uzbekistan: Vagrants Take Shine off Model Town
A television report lifting the lid on homelessness in a showcase Uzbek town has caused official rage and embarrassment.
22 Feb 05
Support local journalists