Stories about Central Asia & Caucasus from September, 2022
The great escape from Russia: Live on Russian Twitter
An estimated 260,000 Russians, mostly men, have left their country since September 21 when President Putin declared a "partial mobilization," Most of the ones fleeing cross land borders to Georgia and Kazakhstan.
A Georgian neo-Nazi group finds a home on YouTube
A prominent Georgian neo-Nazi group, Georgian National Unity, has reemerged online months after their self-described "commander," Giga Chelidze was released from prison.
In Azerbaijan, police detain peace activist ahead of International Day of Peace
According to police records, Mammadli was arrested on the grounds of resisting police, an accusation common among punitive measures used in Azerbaijan to target political and civic activists.
The invisible women behind Georgia's fishing industry
Women employed in the fishing industry in Georgia are usually informal workers, so there is scarce data on their incomes and contributions to the sector.
Queer folks fleeing Azerbaijan: Alone, but liberated
Despite the lack of guarantees for her safety, Banu took a risk and moved to Georgia where she is looking for a job and enjoying her freedom.
Dowries: A changing tradition in Azerbaijan
Dowry, a centuries-old tradition in Azerbaijan is transforming. Newlyweds also are expecting less and encouraging their parents to save money.
Azerbaijan, Armenia, and tenuous prospects for peace
The European Council president urged the two leaders to work with their respective populations, preparing them "for a long-term, sustainable peace."
Will Georgia break the cycle of surveillance in return for EU membership?
The Council of Europe's Venice Commission issued an Urgent Opinion on Georgia's recently passed amendments on the so- called wiretapping law on August 26.
Carving a path for LGBTQ+ people through shame, homophobic violence, and bans
People lean towards embracing dignity and pride for what they are. Being “Kazakh” and being “gay” seemed to be mutually exclusive, but we become aware of our rights, our self-worth.
Ukraine war hits Azerbaijani labor migrants
Millions of Azerbaijanis working in Russia and Ukraine are finding themselves forced to choose between their jobs and safety as Russia’s war continues to disrupt the economy on both sides.
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