Uzbekistan reforms

In 2018, Bobomurod Abdullaev walked out of jail in Uzbekistan after a surprising conclusion to a case levied against him by the state. New charges could mark a step backward.

Privatization of the cotton sector “is in itself no silver bullet solution” for the problems of corruption and forced labor. 

Tashkent has made progress on the path toward greater religious freedom, but must remain vigilant to protect the gains it has made and continue to actively push forward.

The landmark privatization scheme took cotton out of the government’s direct hands and placed it in private “clusters” -- but not without significant risks.

Despite progress in combating forced labor, Uzbekistan has yet to meaningfully engage in the civil society focused reforms necessary.

Bashan Investment Group owns film production companies in Asia and, now, Tashkent's most recognizable building. 

The hope that reforms will ultimately bring about free market capitalism with accompanying democratic politics is utmost naivety. 

The pandemic has led to the resurrection of heavy law enforcement in Uzbekistan.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been ringing his neighbors to coordinate and dispatching aid to Afghanistan.

With development mushrooming across Uzbekistan, the country's historic quarters are at risk.

Uzbekistan has one of the lowest rates of internal migration in the world, in part due to its registration system.

Nafosat Olloshkurova's decision to leave Uzbekistan reflects just how far the state has yet to go with its reforms, particularly regarding free speech.