I am the Central Asia editor. I work with authors to produce engaging and inspiring stories that cover five Central Asian countries, Mongolia and Afghanistan. I am interested in social, political and economic developments in these countries. I am from Kyrgyzstan, but I currently live and work in Ulaanbaatar. Outside of work, you can find me either curled up with a book, cooking or enjoying outdoors.
Latest posts by Nurbek Bekmurzaev
Failed assassination attempt sparks speculations of power struggle in Uzbekistan
The timing of the incident stirred discussions of a possible power struggle unfolding among different groups close to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to solidify their position as his future successor.
First the flag and now the anthem: How Kyrgyzstan's leadership is changing its national symbols
“Why don't we now write an anthem for future generations about the fact that our people have a five-thousand-year history?” concluded Japarov.
Why child and forced marriages persist in Central Asia
Comprehensive data and readily available data can guide the development of policies, targeted interventions, funding, and impact assessments.
Mongolia’s new minister is determined to reform its education sector
Since becoming a minister in July, he has already introduced dozens of changes covering everything from pre-school to higher education.
Central Asians display unprecedented regional solidarity at the Paris Olympics
This level of solidarity showcased that Central Asians have developed a common regional identity and view each other as more than just adjacent nations.
Meet the US boxer who laid the foundation of boxing in Uzbekistan
Thousands of children went through his boxing school, and some of them went on to become world and Olympic champions, not to mention dozens of boxers who won national championships.
US diplomats’ memoirs offer candid tales of Central Asian history
A recurring theme in them is Karimov’s loathsome attitude and lack of respect towards his regional colleagues.
Mongolia’s olympic uniforms draw praise abroad and criticism at home
Mongolians criticised Michel&Amazonka designers for lack of creativity and blamed it for replicating Manchu clothing of Manchu people, an ethnic minority from China.
Mongolia's new electoral system results in greater representation in the parliament
It was the first time in the country’s history as many as five political parties won seats in the parliament.
Kyrgyzstan’s president’s niece undermines his efforts to remold national traditions
The over-the-top engagement ceremony delivered a blow to the authorities ongoing work to remold local traditions surrounding the celebration of major life-cycle events.
Wild horses return to their historic natural habitat in Kazakhstan
This initiative became a major milestone in global wildlife preservation efforts to save Przewalski’s horses from extinction and reintroduce them to their natural habitat.
President Zelenskyy’s first interview with Central Asian journalists warns of dangers of being in Russia’s orbit
The interview came at a time when people in Central Asia remain divided regarding their opinion on the war in Ukraine.
Riots against foreign students in Kyrgystan undermine its people-to-people ties with South Asia
The Kyrgyz government reacted strongly to the incident, condemning violence, apologizing to the students, and promising that such incidents would not happen again.
Taliban bids on sports in Afghanistan to gain legitimacy at home and abroad
The calculated strategy of the Taliban to promote specific sports is aimed at projecting a sense of normalcy and asserting their authority.
What stands behind Central Asia’s ugly problem with domestic violence
The widespread nature of the problem translates into the endless cycle of outrageous stories of assaults and murders of women in the region.
How Mongolia became a 3×3 basketball powerhouse
The national teams’ success in basketball has broken the popular belief that Mongolians can only excel in individual sports.
Kyrgyzstan’s unsung heroes get recognition through street art
The Kadam project is an example of an initiative by individuals who are passionate about bringing social change via creative means.
Central Asia’s unique tradition of singing during Ramadan keeps evolving
Jaramazan’s growing popularity has taken it to restaurants, parks, roads, and offices, where it is performed by professional singers, small children, and youngsters alike.
Kyrgyzstan’s blockbuster film is a moving tale of the bond between a mother and son
According to the film’s director Ruslan Akun, its main goal is encouraging people to be merciful towards each other and do good deeds.
Uzbekistan's recent anti-religious measures present a worrisome trend for its Muslims
This is not the first time Muslims in Uzbekistan, who make up 94 percent of the population, face persecution due to their beliefs.
Natural disasters in Mongolia grow worse and threaten the future of nomadic way of life
Although it is animals that die during dzud, these disasters affect the entire nation.
