Region
Central Asia
Keeping Kyrgyz Journalism Afloat While the Island of Democracy Sinks
By Aigerim Turgunbaeva and Sher Khashimov
“One way or another, our journalists will do what matters.”
Corruption Issues Loom Large as Mongolia Prepares to Vote
By Michael Kohn
The ruling MPP has the advantage in polling, but domestic grievances could help opposition parties gain seats.
Could Iran be a Gateway for Central Asia?
By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez
Connecting with Iran may be tempting for Central Asian countries like Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, but increased relations with Tehran may ultimately be counterproductive.
India in the Caucasus and Central Asia: The Giant Next Door
By Oleg Abdurashitov and Eldaniz Gusseinov
The shift from a security-focused engagement to broader cooperation with the Caucasus and Central Asian states underscores India’s pursuit of strategic depth.
Imams in Uzbekistan Asked to Stay off Social Media
By Niginakhon Saida
Uzbek imams and religious bloggers occupy an influential space online in Uzbekistan.
Does the Sanctioned Daughter of the Kremlin’s Press Chief Have a Kazakh Bank Account?
By Catherine Putz
A recent report suggests that Elizaveta Peskova may have registered for an individual identification number in Kazakhstan -- that in turn may have enabled her to access the Kazakh banking system.
Kazakh President Explains Decision to Take Taliban off Terrorist List
By Catherine Putz
The decision was announced back in December, but recently Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev remarked that it was made with “the understanding that this regime is a long-term factor.”
Kicksharing Takes Off in Kyrgyzstan
By Colleen Wood
As shared e-kickscooters become more popular, local authorities are putting regulations on this ecologically friendly form of transport.
Uzbekistan and the New Realities of Trans-Afghan Trade
By Nargiza Umarova
Significant changes in the international logistics system are fueling the development of trans-Afghan routes, but Uzbekistan may have to deal with increased competition.
Former Almaty Police Deputy Head Detained in January 2022 Torture Case
By Catherine Putz
Kyrgyz jazz musician Vikram Ruzakhunov was detained, tortured, and forced to make a false confession amid the chaos of the January 2022 events. It’s yet to be seen if justice will be ultimately served.
A Trojan Horse? The New Kazakh Gambling Legislation Needs a Closer Look
By Adilbek Abdulov
The betting industry in Kazakhstan is profitable, making the question of who controls its profits of utmost importance.
State Projects and Proxies: All the President’s Men in Kyrgyzstan
By Catherine Putz
A new OCCRP, Temirov Live, Kloop investigation finishes “the work of those who can longer do journalism in Kyrgyzstan” by uncovering a murky network of connections profiting from state projects.