Region
Central Asia
Kyrgyz Kingpin Kolbaev Killed in Bishkek Pub by Security Services
By Catherine Putz
Kolbaev’s death was a sudden end to a long, infamous, career of escaping the law both internationally and within Kyrgyzstan.
An Economist vs. Uzbekistan’s Silk Industry: Whose Facts Matter?
By Umida Niyazova
A coming court verdict on the admissibility of independently verified information could have lasting negative implications for labor rights reporting in Uzbekistan.
Mysterious Border Protocol Signed Between Kyrgyz and Tajik Security Chiefs
By Catherine Putz
The details of “Protocol No. 44” are unknown, but both sides clearly want to portray some kind of progress in their drawn-out border negotiations.
Bill to Label ‘Foreign Representatives’ in Kyrgyzstan Moves Forward
By Catherine Putz
Discussions have resumed in Kyrgyzstan’s parliament over a proposed “foreign representatives” bill reminiscent of Russia’s “foreign agents” law.
Gulnara Karimova Accused of Running Criminal Organization in New Swiss Indictment
By Catherine Putz
Karimova’s organization, dubbed “The Office,” ran a hierarchical professional operation – with a criminal twist, according to Swiss federal prosecutors.
Germany Hosts Central Asian Leaders for Summit
By Catherine Putz
Attending yet another summit, it’s clear that diplomatic outreach to Central Asia is in high gear across the West.
Nazarbayev Nephew Subject of Bloody January ‘Abuse of Power’ Investigation
By Catherine Putz
Since the violent unrest of January 2022 in Kazakhstan, Samat Abish has remained in the shadows of various investigations. He’s now a target.
Measuring the Power and Legitimacy of Uzbekistan’s Islamic Leaders
By Niginakhon Saida
The popularity of religious figures in Uzbekistan is tied to their legitimacy, itself derived from their formal positions within government-affiliated religious institutions.
Mamai ‘Banned Everywhere’ as Court Clarifies Suspended Sentence Terms
By Catherine Putz
The court clarified that Mamai, a noted opposition politician, is indeed banned from all conceivable forms of participation in social or political conversations in Kazakhstan.
China’s Unjust Life Sentence for Uyghur Scholar Rahile Dawut Is a Tragic Loss for Humanity
By Omer Kanat
Rahile's imprisonment represents not only a personal tragedy but also a broader assault on Uyghur culture and identity.
Kazakhstan Publishes List of Entities and Individuals Receiving Foreign Funding
By Catherine Putz
When is a list not just a list?
Evolving Narratives in German Foreign Policy Toward Central Asia
By Rustam Kayumov
Germany’s key role is in helping Central Asia reduce its reliance on Russian and Chinese investments and, more significantly, trade.