Stories about Central Asia & Caucasus
Numerous journalists connected to Azerbaijani news site arrested
At least three Azerbaijani journalists were arrested on November 20 from Abzas media in connection with corruption reporting. International press groups are calling for their release.
Tatar language activist who identifies as queer: ‘Under the influence of the modern Russian state, Central Asian politicians are trying to implement similar anti-gay policies’
Interview with Tatar queer language activist Marsel Ganeyev, whose aim is to „help minorities reconnect to their roots or overcome the emotional trauma"
In the shadow of decades-old scars and trauma
We are a generation of war, that will live in the shadow of the wars that left scars beyond repair.
European Commission greenlights EU candidacy for Georgia
On November 8, the European Commission recommended that the EU grant Georgia candidate status, paving the way for the bloc to begin the country’s accession process.
What to make of the Taliban's increasing engagement with China
The multi billion dollar investment deals created an unprecedented buzz around the future of Chinese presence in Afghanistan.
Armenia and Azerbaijan vow peace — for now
Armenian and Azerbaijan's leadership may have finally agreed on a peace deal document to be signed "in the coming months."
In Georgia, backsliding has taken over culture and art, says a new report
Those who spoke to PEN American said the repression reminded them of the Soviet occupation, "during which all art and culture was systematically repressed or exploited for government propaganda purposes."
In Russia, a Tajik citizen is detained on charges of spying for Ukraine
If the allegations are true, this represents a new phase in the participation of Tajik nationals in the war in Ukraine.
In Azerbaijan, public transportation does not welcome trans passengers
Public transportation become a place where transphobic stares, harassment and threats of violence are rampant.
The president of Georgia beats impeachment proceedings
In her address to parliament during the impeachment session, Zurabishvili denied violating the constitution, and stated that the vote would harm Georgia’s "European future."
Anti-war activist punk musician from Yakutia detained in Kazakhstan
The poet, activist and leader of the Yakut punk band Crispy Newspaper Aikhal Ammosov regularly took to the streets with pickets and performances, painted graffiti and tried to hang anti-war banners in Russia.
Meet Central Asia’s giant and wildly expensive Arashan sheep
Arashan sheep’s low number, impressive size, and the fast speed at which they grow has made them one of the most sought after commodities on the Central Asian animal market.
Stories of coexistence in times of war
Places like Marneuli give peace a chance or at least illustrate that a narrative of peace is possible outside the conflict zone.
Why has Turkmenistan’s succession plan gone sideways?
Turkmenistan’s succession is under close inspection by its neighboring countries, where political regimes have struggled with power transition.
While in exile in Lviv, Ukraine, a Crimean Tatar woman promotes her community through cuisine
"It is about the nostalgia of those people who lived in Crimea, visited Crimea, or only dreamed of visiting it."
Kyrgyzstan’s golden generation of wrestlers continue to shine bright and inspire
Ahead of the 2024 Paris summer Olympics, the nation’s hopes for an Olympic gold medal, which Kyrgyzstan is yet to win, are placed on their shoulders.
Legendary singer Sherali Jo’rayev encapsulated Uzbekistan’s traditional music and poetry
His legacy endures, a reminder of the enduring spirit of artistic expression and the importance of protecting the freedom to create and perform.
Nagorno-Karabakh surrenders but what of the future?
Over the last three years, mutual accusations of ceasefire violations continued unabated. So did, mutual hostile rhetoric throwing any prospects for peace out of the window.
Why does Sinophobia remain strong in Kazakhstan?
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) launched by Xi Jinping 10 years ago has intensified Sinophobia associated with the activities of Chinese companies.
In Azerbaijan, one young queer activist is defying boundaries
Existing legislation in Azerbaijan does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation. There is also no law on bullying despite advocacy efforts of activists.
In Central Asia, the concerts of pro-war Russian celebrities are canceled in solidarity with Ukraine
In contrast to the governments in Central Asia, which maintain an ambiguous position, ordinary people in the region have expressed their political stance more clearly by expressing solidarity with Ukraine.