Central Asia

'Berlin Wall's Lessons For Today'

In an op-ed for "USA Today," Jeffrey Gedmin discusses RFE and the role of free media in societies living under repressive regimes. More

Kyrgyzstan Braces For Swine-Flu Outbreak

The official number of swine-flu cases in Kyrgyzstan has been put at 61, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service reports. More

In Tajikistan, Free Information Comes At A Price

The Tajik government has introduced a new decree obliging journalists to pay for information obtained from officials, RFE/RL's Tajik Service reports. More

Kyrgyzstan Moves To Ban Smoking In Public Places

The Kyrgyz parliament has approved amendments to a law that bans smoking in state institutions, at entrances to multistory buildings, and in all public places. More

In Tajikistan, Woman Dies After Beating By Russian Troop

The woman suffered injuries in a beating last week at the hands of a Russian military officer from a unit stationed in Khatlon Province, but police say her death was ultimately caused by complications from hepatitis. More

Kazakhstan Adopts Tough Privacy Protection Law

Kazakhstan has approved a bill introducing tougher punishment for invasion of privacy in a move condemned by the opposition as an attack on press freedom. More

Kyrgyz Deport Russian Rights Activist

Kyrgyzstan deported a foreign human rights activist investigating accusations of abuse against Muslims in the Central Asian state, campaigners said today. More

Ruling Party Passes Provision Promoting Kyrgyz Language

Kyrgyz pro-presidential Ak-Jol (Bright Path) party has approved a provision that would require its diplomats to understand the Kyrgyz language, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service reports. More

HRW Calls For Kyrgyzstan To Release Activists

HRW is urging the government of Kyrgyzstan to release two human rights activists investigating rights abuses in the south of the country. More

Kyrgyz Opposition: Utility Hikes Will Repay World Bank Loan

Kyrgyz opposition leader Omurbek Tekebaev says the government will use increased payments from steep rises in utility prices to repay a $30 million World Bank loan, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service reports. More