Authorities in Kazakhstan have prosecuted a prominent journalist over bogus charges of taking part in proscribed political movement.
Central Asia articles on Democracy Chronicles
In modern contexts, all definitions of Central Asia include these five republics of the former Soviet Union: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The largely Muslim region has been increasingly anti-democracy since it broke off as a group from Russia in 1991. Also see our section on World Democracy and our articles on Russia and Vladimir Putin.
Dozens Detained In Crackdown At Kazakhstan Opposition Rallies
Protesters in oil-rich Kazakhstan are decrying political repression. 50 were arrested in Almaty, the largest city in the country.
Free Speech Under Threat in Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan’s parliament is considering a draft new law that may undermine free speech. HRW proposed its publication and review.
Uzbekistan: Blogger Held on Dubious Extortion Charge
Otabek Sattoriy an outspoken blogger in Uzbekistan faces 10 years in prison in a dubious extortion case brought by authorities.
Kyrgyzstan’s Third Revolution and the Road to Another Constitution
Kyrgyzstan’s third revolution has set off a series of maneuvers leading to early presidential elections and a constitutional referendum.
Government Suspends Key Kazakhstan Human Rights Organizations
The government suspended several Kazakhstan human rights organizations over their funding sources, escalating its ongoing campaign.
Kazakh Authorities Target Rights Groups in Coordinated Attack
Crackdown on local human rights groups casts serious doubt that Kazakhstan’s leadership is genuinely interested in reforms
Older People Not Spared in Latest Tajikistan Crackdown
For simple acts, the Tajikistan police detained Nabiev on August 27, 2020 and accused him of illegal activities.
China’s surveillance state spreads from Uyghurs to Central Asia
China’s advanced surveillance regime is taking root along the length of the Belt and Road —especially the Belt, the overland Eurasian routes.
Bilash terms of release demonstrate Kazakhstan’s Contempt for Rights
Terms of release of Serikzhan Bilash, are to silence the activist, a show of Kazakhstan’s contempt for rights, argues Hugh Williamson in an article in HRW.