Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Uzbekistan

EU Following Case Of Independent Uzbek Journalist

It's still not known how many died in the Andijon crackdown in May 2005 (RFE/RL)

February 21, 2007 (RFE/RL) -- The European Union's special representative for Central Asia told RFE/RL's Uzbek Service today that the EU is closely following the case of independent journalist and rights activist Umida Niyazova.

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February 21, 2007

Pierre Morel said the EU is working through the German Embassy in Tashkent to help Niyazova.

"A collective action of the European Union is under way through the German presidency [of the EU] and the German Embassy in Tashkent is following [the case] very closely and very regularly with Uzbek authorities," morel said. "We are working on it and following it very closely."

Niyazova was detained last month and charged with illegally crossing state borders and collecting and distributing material threatening the public security.

Uzbek and international rights groups have complained that the charges are politically motivated because Niyazova was interviewing witnesses of the Andijon violence in May 2005 who fled to Kyrgyzstan.

The Uzbek government received heavy international criticism for using excessive force to restore order in Andijon.

Andijon Refugees

Uzbek refugees in Kyrgyzstan on May 19, 2005 (epa)

NO PLACE TO GO: More than 400 Uzbeks who fled in panic in the hours and days after troops opened fire on demonstrators in Andijon one year ago have been granted political asylum outside Central Asia. In limbo for weeks in Kyrgyzstan as they and the world tried to come to grips with the bloody events of May 12 and 13, they feared for their lives and the lives of family members as the official crackdown continued.... (more)

Andijon Refugees In Romania Have Escaped Violence, But Not Heartache

Refugees In Romania Await Decision On Destination

Refugees Want To Return Only If Regime Changes

THE COMPLETE STORY: A dedicated webpage bringing together all of RFE/RL's coverage of the events in Andijon, Uzbekistan, in May 2005 and their continuing repercussions.

CHRONOLOGY

For an annotated timeline of the Andijon events and their repercussions, click here.

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