Crackdown on local human rights groups casts serious doubt that Kazakhstan’s leadership is genuinely interested in reforms
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.
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.
Kazakhstan: Feminist Group Denied Registration
An appeals court in Kazakhstan on September 3 upheld a decision denying Feminita, a national feminist initiative, registration as a NGO.
Jaslyk Prison closure is a victory for Human Rights in Uzbekistan
Jaslyk prison planned closure offers hope that Uzbekistan is on the path to making serious improvements in its terrible record on human rights.
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.
Experts Urge Tajikistan To Address Enforced Disappearances
Tajikistan faces significant challenges in dealing with the issue of enforced disappearances.“We leave Tajikistan with some hope and serious concerns”.
Reviewing The Situation Of Civil And Political Rights In Tajikistan
Committee Experts took note of the positive measures taken in the institutional and legislative framework in Tajikistan.
Kazakhstan Updates Tally of Protest Arrests to Nearly 4,000
Protests took place in Kazakhstan on election day and continued for several days over what government critics saw as an orchestrated handover of power.
Harassment of Human Rights Watch Activist in Uzbekistan
Human Rights Watch re-established a presence in Uzbekistan in August 2017 after President Shavkat Mirziyoyev launched a reform campaign.