Stories about Central Asia & Caucasus from March, 2020
An interview with Afgan Mukhtarli, abducted Azerbaijani journalist who now walks free
In May 2017 journalist Afgan Mukhtarli was abducted in the Georgian capital Tbilisi and reappeared in a jail cell in Azerbaijan. Recently released, he reflects on his ordeal.
Calculating the hidden costs of breakaway borders in Georgia
The boundaries between breakaway Abkhazia and South Ossetia and Georgian government controlled territory are hardening. For locals on both sides of the divide, that brings huge social and economic costs.
Azerbaijan signals a lockdown and a crackdown in fight against coronavirus
Attempting to slow the spread of the coronavirus, Azerbaijan's president has closed the country's borders, emptied its streets, cancelled large public gatherings, and given a fiery speech against the opposition.
Turkmenistan fights coronavirus with (more) isolation and herbal remedies
Turkmen officials deny any cases of COVID-19 in the country. They aim to keep the virus away by closing borders, testing incoming travellers, and burning an aromatic desert grass.
As Uzbekistan thaws, the Uzbek language spreads its wings
A political thaw is underway in a nation eagerly going online — providing the perfect opportunity for the Uzbek language to thrive in new and unexpected ways.
No place for transgender people in Georgia's labour market
Finding a stable job is a hard enough task for all Georgians — but as Nata and Gabriela's stories show, it's nearly impossible for transgender people.
Georgia's youth protesters lead 2020's political showdown
Georgia’s capital Tbilisi braces itself for renewed anti-government protests next month, and youth protesters are at the forefront.
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