Senior student of the International and Comparative Politics Department at the American University of Central Asia
Latest posts by Altynai Sydykova
Italian Singer Encourages Kazakhs to Speak Mother Tongue
Son Pascal, an Italian singer and songwriter, has become a celebrity in Kazakhstan by passionately encouraging Kazakhs to speak their mother tongue. In a brief interview with Global Voices Online, Pascal talks about his love for all things Kazakh.
Kazakhstan: Trial of Opposition Leaders Draws Pussy Riot Comparisons
“A Pussy Riot of our own” is how Kazakhstani netizens are referring to the judicial drama involving three opposition leaders accused of active participation in the Zhanaozen oil-strike that turned violent in December 2011. The trials of Vladimir Kozlov, Aizhanat Aminov and Serik Sapargaly started on August 16, and are expected to end within the next two weeks. Kazakh netizens do not believe that the three defendants will get a fair trial.
Kazakhstan: ‘Imported’ Olympic Champions Cause Controversy
Two of the six gold medals bagged by Kazakhstan at the London Olympics were claimed by Chinese-born female weightlifters. The success of the "imported" athletes has caused a lot of controversy, with Chinese officials accusing Kazakhstan of misinforming the public about the athletes' country of origin.
Kazakhstan: Unusual Campaign Uses Sheep to Advertise Road Safety
The authorities in Almaty have launched a campaign aimed at educating pedestrians about the importance of following rules when crossing the street. The campaign includes posters and billboards with a stinging message: "People follow rules when crossing the road. Sheep [cross the road] wherever they wish". Netizens respond to the initiative.
