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Uzbek Service

Radio Ozodlik provides independent news and information inside Uzbekistan, one of the world’s most closed and authoritarian societies.

Central Asia’s Rising Global Profile And How That Affects Governance At Home

Central Asia has never enjoyed so much international attention as it has since Russia launched its full-scale war on Ukraine.

Central Asia in Focus: Is the Taliban’s Controversial Canal Leaking Water?

In this week’s edition: is the Taliban’s controversial canal leaking water? Plus a Kyrgyz Kurultai turns into a cult fest for President Japarov, and more.

Punishing Reporting: Bloggers Under Pressure In Mirziyoev’s Uzbekistan

Since Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev came to power in late 2016, he has often exhorted journalists to draw attention to corruption.

Central Asia in Focus: Another Winter of Energy Discontent in Kazakhstan?

In this week’s edition: will Kazakstan experience another winter of energy discontent? Plus an ethnic Karakalpak is stripped of Kazakh citizenship, and a discussion of recent protests in Kyrgyzstan against…

Merchant Protests Shake Kyrgyz Government

The government’s announcement of a new tax regime for local bazaars and markets sparked an unexpected backlash.

Meeting Development Goals For Central Asia’s Persons With Disabilities

December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The Drone Race In Central Asia

All five Central Asian militaries have drones, and four of the countries produce military drones domestically.

Central Asia in Focus: Kazakh Authorities Send Mixed Signals on Using SpaceX’s Starlink

In this week’s edition: Kazakh authorities send mixed signals on using SpaceX’s Starlink, EU Anti-Drug Program warns of increase of Afghan methamphetamines in Uzbekistan, Turkmen authorities prevent journalist from collecting…

Recent Attacks Spotlight Gender Violence In Kazakhstan

Headlines in Kazakhstan in recent weeks have been dominated by reports of violence against women.