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Kremlin tries to match governors to its regional needs

Location:

RUSSIA

Five years after Sergey Kiriyenko arrived in the presidential administration to manage the political system, technocratic leaders are emerging from his programme designed to…

No space for Belarusian opposition in next elections

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BELARUS

There is little chance opposition parties can make an impact; the authorities' first step will be to ensure they are barely represented on election commissions. Many parties have…

Kazakhstan will silence dissenting voices amid crisis

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KAZAKHSTAN

Prosecutions for questioning Kazakhstan's statehood.

Language controversy will haunt Moldova’s politics

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MOLDOVA

The name of Moldova’s official language has been a matter of controversy for decades. Opponents of the change view it as a step towards the country’s reunification with…

Kremlin tightens grip on Russian regional governance

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RUSSIA

The legislation is the most radical and comprehensive reform of centre-regional relations since Vladimir Putin became president in 1999. Formalising and consolidating a steady…

New Kyrgyzstan language law will raise Russia tensions

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CENTRAL ASIA

A new language law entered into force on July 18 that reflects the president's determination to promote Kyrgyz. Russia’s foreign ministry has protested. The controversy highlights…

Kazakhstan poll will be about stability not succession

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KAZAKHSTAN

The vote comes amid an unprecedented economic downturn caused by a combination of factors: low oil prices, recession in Russia and slowdown in China. President Nursultan…

Kazakh leader retires but has succession plan in hand

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KAZAKHSTAN

Although the timing of Nazarbayev's announcement was a surprise, a handover has been long expected and a succession plan appears to be in place. Senate speaker Kassym-Jomart…

Kyrgyz election brings new populism but no stability

Location:

KYRGYZSTAN

Japarov rose to power during a period of turmoil and was elected on a promise of delivering swift relief from poverty, the COVID-19 crisis, political instability and external…