IWPR Central Asia

Stories by the Author

Turkmenistan's Dubious Harvest Claims

Officials report high grain production but farmers say that is impossible given the current state of agriculture.

21 Jul 10

Organised Enthusiasm in Turkmenistan

Behind the cheering, quiet resentment at being forced to turn up and applaud government.

22 Jun 10

Uzbek Rights Activists to Fight for Sports Writer's Release

Campaigners hope jailed reporter’s popularity will increase pressure on authorities to review case.

18 Jun 10

Tajik Power Company Calls in Debts

Higher electricity bills and tougher penalties for arrears are putting pressure on household consumers. By Nazarali Pirnazarov in Dushanbe

4 Apr 10

Free Speech Fears for Kazakstan Internet

New watchdog designed to monitor “destructive” website content, but could that include political debate as well as extremist literature? By Milana Orazbekova in Almaty

30 Mar 10

Child Labour Still Seen as “Tradition” in Uzbekistan

Tougher penalties for using children as cheap labour do not seem to be having much effect, as officials fail to act and families are glad of the extra income.

25 Mar 10

Turkmen Media Shake-up Draws Scepticism

Local journalists say the president’s call for reform is meaningless unless he is prepared to allow genuine freedom of speech.

20 Mar 10

Tashkent Acts to Cut Cross-Border Trade

Closing border checkpoint to cars reflects state’s hostility to small-time importers.

11 Mar 10

Are Tajik Courts Ready for New Powers?

Khalil Qayumzoda reports on the implications of a change in the law that will reduce the powers of prosecutors.

7 Mar 10

Bishkek Disabled Encouraged to Take Buses

Aidai Tokonova reports on a campaign to make it easier for disabled people to use public transport, largely by showing other passengers how they can help.