Kazakhstan: As election beckons, authorities tighten control on internet Authorities accuse critics of the measure of being NATO stooges. Almaz Kumenov Dec 7, 2020
Tajikistan's last opposition party targeted for prosecution Odinayev had called for a demonstration to protest against price rises. Dec 7, 2020
Kazakhstan: Civil society complains of pre-election pressure Authorities have decided to inspect their tax returns just before parliamentary elections. Joanna Lillis Dec 7, 2020
Georgia’s COVID outbreak grows from molehill to “Everest” In the early days of the pandemic, Georgia enjoyed one of the most enviable rates in the world. Things began to fall apart in late summer. Giorgi Lomsadze Dec 7, 2020
Kazakhstan to start Sputnik V vaccinations early next year Trials for a domestically developed QazCovid-in vaccine are not expected to be completed until March. Almaz Kumenov Dec 4, 2020
Uzbekistan: The red pilgrimage to Mecca At the height of Stalin’s power, he let a handful of Soviet Muslims visit Mecca. Why? Dec 4, 2020
In political crisis, Armenian president makes power play The previously apolitical figure has emerged as a challenger to the embattled prime minister. But his chances of success aren’t clear. Ani Mejlumyan Dec 3, 2020
Kyrgyzstan: Constitutional Chamber nixes attempt to halt power grab Activists worry the country is sleepwalking toward authoritarianism. Ayzirek Imanaliyeva Dec 2, 2020
Perspectives | How China gains from Armenia-Azerbaijan war The distant war may play a role in Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative. Nima Khorrami Dec 2, 2020
Kazakhstan sleepwalks toward choice-free parliamentary election But there is no papering over the festering disillusionment. Almaz Kumenov Dec 2, 2020
Kazakhstan: Nazarbayev-linked billionaire sucked into UK court battle The surprise asset freeze has sparked speculation of possible elite infighting. Joanna Lillis Dec 2, 2020
Azerbaijan retakes control of final region as part of ceasefire deal with Armenia The handover was confused, as the current Armenian residents got multiple mixed messages over whether they could stay. Joshua Kucera Dec 2, 2020
Tajikistan: Independent media outlet evicted from premises Asia-Plus says it has rejected requests from government agencies to place content. Dec 2, 2020
Turkmenistan: The Germans are coming! Only the best medicine for the leader. For everyone else, bread shortages. Akhal-Teke: A Turkmenistan Bulletin Dec 1, 2020