Repatriating Islamic State Fighters and Families: Balancing Security and Humanity

With the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, repatriating foreign fighters is a pressing issue at the intersection of global security, humanitarian principles, and national responsibility. Central Asian governments — namely, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan — have emerged as proactive players in repatriating their citizens from camps in northeastern Syria. While these efforts are laudable, they come with challenges and unanswered questions. Tens of thousands of people, many of them women and children associated with former ISIS or the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria - a terrorist organization known for its extreme ideology and violent actions of its’ fighters — remain trapped in the camps of northeastern Syria. Their lives are defined by squalor and uncertainty, and they face a bleak future. Central Asian nations have stepped up where many others have faltered, asserting their responsibility to help their citizens who languish there. Yet, this commitment is not without its limits. Repatriating men — many of whom were fighters — remains a challenge that even the most ambitious programs have struggled to address. This issue looms large, as it intertwines with broader questions. These include reintegration, security risks, and the potential for radicalization, both in prison systems and broader society. The scale of efforts undertaken by four of the Central Asian countries is significant. Together, they have repatriated around 2,200 citizens: Kazakhstan, the most, 754 individuals, followed by others with numbers ranging from 381 to 533. These figures represent more than just logistical achievements. They reflect these governments' commitment to humanitarian principles. However, the path has not been entirely smooth, as some of the repatriated women and children have returned back to conflict zones. As counterintuitive as this may seem, they might do so out of ideological commitment, social ties, coercion or threats, trauma bonding, or difficulty reintegrating into their home societies. All this suggests cracks in reintegration programs that must be addressed. The strategies employed by the Central Asian states, despite their common goal, differ in focus and execution. Kazakhstan’s “Operation Zhusan” is often mentioned as a model of coordination and commitment. It has gone beyond mere repatriation to a vision embracing comprehensive reintegration, including other services, such as DNA testing to identify orphaned children. Yet such efforts rely heavily on state resources and long-term political will, neither of which can be taken for granted. Uzbekistan’s Mehr ("Kindness") initiative has particularly focused on protecting children and supporting the unification of families. Yet even with international appreciation, Uzbekistan faces the same challenges as its neighbors: how to sustain this momentum and address lingering societal stigmas toward returnees. Kyrgyzstan paused its repatriation operations in Iraq due to legal roadblocks and has turned its attention to Syria. However, Kyrgyzstan relies significantly on international cooperation, as its own economic resources for such activities are comparatively limited. So far, it has repatriated 511 citizens. Tajikistan’s steady progress highlights even more pointedly the role of international cooperation with organizations like UNICEF and the European Union. The Tajik authorities have worked closely with these partners to provide psychological and educational support for returnees. Questions remain about the long-term success of reintegration, particularly for individuals who may struggle to find acceptance in their communities. However, repatriation is not just a strategic necessity, but a moral obligation. For women and children, the barriers to reintegration include societal stigma, mental health struggles, and the absence of economic opportunities. Repatriated men face a different set of concerns. Not least, the risk of radicalization can be significant in instances of incarceration. Even outside of the prison system, ISIS sentiments and the urge to impose or fight for extremists and oppressive ideologies may persist. The countries of Central Asia have taken constructive steps to address such challenges where others have hesitated: in Europe and North America, repatriation efforts have frequently been delayed or limited by debates over security risks, public opinion, and resource allocation. Many Western nations have opted for a case-by-case approach or declined broad repatriation. The much more comprehensive Central Asia approach, by contrast, demonstrates both responsibility and the presence of compassion in governance. Important international observers have considered such efforts as a global model for balancing security and humanitarianism. Thus, even NGOs such as Human Rights Watch, critical of other aspects of Central Asian governance, have noted the humanitarian focus of these repatriation efforts. Likewise, respected think-tanks such as the International Crisis Group, have highlighted Central Asia's approach as noteworthy; and UN agencies like UNICEF have praised aspects of reintegration and repatriation programs, particularly those aimed at children and vulnerable populations. Yet, the Central Asian experience demonstrates the importance of looking beyond repatriation to focus on long-term reintegration. Central Asia has shown that progress is achievable, but also fragile. It requires continuous investment, not just in financial terms, but in terms of societal and political commitment, as well as continuing international assistance. Time and again, we are reminded that terrorism is a global challenge, indifferent to borders. Without opportunities for integration and a shared future within civil society, those disconnected from it will continue to pose a threat globally.

Long-Awaited Construction of China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Officially Launched

On December 27, Kyrgyzstan's President Sadyr Japarov, the Chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission of the People's Republic of China, Zheng Shanjie, and Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjayev participated in a ceremony to mark the start of construction on the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway. The event occurred in the village of Tosh-Kutchu in Kyrgyzstan’s Jalal-Abad region, where they laid the first stone for this significant regional transportation project.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Japarov highlighted the importance of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway as more than just a transportation route, describing it as a critical strategic bridge linking the East and West. "This route will ensure the delivery of goods from China to Kyrgyzstan, as well as to the countries of Central Asia and the Middle East, including Turkey, and on to the European Union. The project will strengthen interregional ties, help diversify transport routes and increase the competitiveness of the region as an international transport and transit hub, which is in line with the goals of the Central Asian countries," Japarov said.

Zheng Shanjie delivered a message from Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting that the new land corridor connecting Asia and Europe will significantly increase the flow of people and trade among the three countries. According to the message, the project is expected to drive regional prosperity by fostering industrial and resource development, boosting trade, and attracting investment.

How Christmas is Celebrated in Central Asia

In predominantly Islamic countries, celebrating Christian Christmas reflects a spirit of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. On December 25, people of all backgrounds are welcome to join the celebrations.

Catholics and Protestants are minority Christian groups in Central Asia. Catholicism was introduced to the region as early as the 12th century, but Christianity was eradicated during the Timurid era and later revived under the Russian Empire. Today, Catholics and Protestants in the region are largely descendants of German and Polish immigrants, as well as employees of foreign embassies and international companies.

Kazakhstan

In Kazakhstan, unlike Orthodox Christmas on January 7, December 25 is not a public holiday. There are no large-scale national festivities, but many Kazakhstani people extend warm greetings to their Catholic neighbors. According to the 2021 census, Catholics account for 0.57% of the population (about 19,000 people) and Protestants 0.28% (approximately 9,500) within a total Christian population of over three million​.

Despite the small number of adherents, festive services are held in major cities. The Church of the Holy Trinity in Almaty hosts Midnight Mass and other celebrations, and St. Joseph's Church in Astana also offers services. Both cities organize organ music concerts that attract many non-Catholic attendees. Other cities, including Karaganda, Atyrau, Pavlodar, Petropavlovsk, Kostanai, and Ust-Kamenogorsk, also have Catholic parishes​.

Kazakhstan’s Catholic communities observe traditions that appeal to many, regardless of religion. Christmas fairs, nativity scenes, and festive dishes such as roasted goose, ducks, pies, and Christmas cookies add to the celebrations. Carols and children’s theatrical performances are also a highlight. Christmas services are conducted in Russian, Polish, and English, reflecting the region’s diversity​.

Kyrgyzstan

Catholic communities in Kyrgyzstan are notably multi-ethnic. At the Roman Catholic parish of St. Michael the Archangel in Bishkek, attendees include professionals and students from India, Pakistan, and other nations. According to estimates, the Catholic population in Kyrgyzstan is approximately 1,500, with numbers growing due to newcomers​.

A unique tradition in Kyrgyzstan is the preparation of twelve fasting dishes on Christmas Eve, symbolizing the months of the year and the twelve apostles. This tradition marks the end of the four-week Advent fast and the beginning of the festive mass on the evening of December 24​.

Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan

The Catholic community in Tajikistan is small, numbering about 100, mostly foreigners. The two parishes in the country include one in Dushanbe, while missionaries manage a kindergarten at a correctional labor colony in Nurek. In Turkmenistan, the congregation in Ashgabat is also small, with Christmas services conducted in Russian, English, and Turkmen​.

In Uzbekistan, Christmas celebrations are held in Tashkent and Samarkand, with services occasionally conducted in Korean. The Catholic communities in these countries, while small, maintain vibrant celebrations, with Protestants and some Orthodox Christians also participating​.

A Time for Unity and Celebration

In Central Asia, Protestant and Orthodox Christians often join Catholic Christmas celebrations. The festivities on December 25, featuring Santa Claus and other traditions, mark the beginning of winter holidays and are cherished by people of all faiths.

Bishkek Court Upholds Decision to Dismantle Trolleybus Lines

The Bishkek Administrative Court has ruled in favor of a decision by the city's Mayor’s Office to dismantle trolleybus lines legally. Representatives of the municipality successfully argued the legality of their actions.

The city government plans to completely replace trolleybuses, an environmentally friendly mode of transportation, with buses. To implement this plan, workers have reportedly cut power lines at night, causing widespread transportation disruptions. This move has faced significant backlash from Bishkek residents, who filed a lawsuit and lodged a complaint with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which had financed the purchase of new trolleybuses.

This decision follows months of controversy. Previously The Times of Central Asia reported that activists had opposed the dismantling of trolleybus lines, labeling the actions as illegal. A month ago, the same court had deemed the municipality’s actions unlawful after city officials failed to appear in court or provide necessary documentation.

Municipal authorities argue that trolleybus operations are financially unsustainable and require substantial investment to maintain the infrastructure. “The city hall continues to work on improving urban space, modernizing public transport, and enhancing infrastructure to make the city safer, more comfortable, and attractive for residents and guests of the capital,” the municipality said.

However, activist Bermet Borubayeva and other advocates for the preservation of trolleybuses expressed disappointment with the court’s decision. In an interview with The Times of Central Asia, Borubayeva criticized the ruling, noting that the mayor’s office had only substantiated the dismantling of lines on a few streets, not across the entire city.

“Residents demand transparency and legality in the actions of the authorities and will continue to fight for the preservation of trolleybuses. Despite the wrongful actions of city officials, the judge recognizes them as legal. This ignores the interests of the plaintiffs,” Borubayeva said.

Human rights groups have vowed to challenge the court’s decision. A new trial concerning Bishkek’s trolleybuses is scheduled for January 13.

Kyrgyz Authorities Tighten Control Over Energy Resource Usage

Kyrgyzstan has enacted a new law mandating efficient and rational use of energy resources across all enterprises, both state-owned and private​.

The law establishes a dedicated government body tasked with inspecting organizations, enterprises, and buildings to ensure compliance with energy efficiency standards, regardless of ownership. This legislation, previously approved by parliament, assigns local state administrations and municipal authorities the responsibility of ensuring energy efficiency in buildings under their jurisdiction. This includes the adoption of highly efficient energy-consuming devices and equipment.

The new law also requires authorities to provide consumers with metering devices for electricity, natural gas, and heat energy. These devices are to be installed in facilities where they are currently absent, allowing for more accurate monitoring and management of energy consumption.

Kyrgyzstan continues to face an electricity deficit of 3.9 billion kilowatt-hours, exacerbated by economic growth, increased industrial activity, and rising energy demand​. Despite ongoing efforts, such as the construction of new hydroelectric power plants and importing electricity from neighboring countries, the shortage persists. This has resulted in rolling blackouts across nearly all regions during winter months.

As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, these shortages highlight the urgency of implementing measures to conserve energy​.

President Sadyr Japarov has criticized citizens for their lack of responsibility in conserving natural resources. He expressed optimism that the new law would encourage greater accountability and help reduce electricity and heat consumption.

By emphasizing energy efficiency and resource management, Kyrgyzstan aims to address its energy challenges while promoting sustainable development.

Kyrgyzstan Plans to Reclaim All Uranium Tailings Dumps

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov addressed the pressing issue of uranium waste during the People's Kurultai (national congress), emphasizing ongoing efforts to reclaim radioactive tailing dumps across the country.

According to Japarov, many tailing dumps were constructed during the Soviet era along riverbanks and in headwaters used by local communities for domestic water supply.

“We turned to Russia, as the legal successor of the USSR, for assistance. Rosatom allocated RUB 2.1 billion ($20 million). Work is now underway to relocate radioactive waste from hazardous areas to safer locations,” Japarov stated.

Japarov highlighted the completion of uranium waste reclamation in Issyk-Kul Oblast, where nuclear waste had posed a threat to Lake Issyk-Kul. Without intervention, the region faced the risk of an ecological disaster. Efforts in Naryn region are also nearing completion, and attention will soon turn to tailing dumps in southern Kyrgyzstan. Local residents have noted that uranium mined in this area was used in the first Soviet atomic bomb.

The tailing dump in Jalal-Abad region is particularly concerning due to its potential impact on neighboring Uzbekistan. Toxic waste from the site threatens the region’s ecology through contamination of a local river.

Russian companies tasked with reclaiming five tailing dumps in Naryn and Jalal-Abad regions will be exempt from taxes, as previously reported by The Times of Central Asia. This collaboration is part of an agreement to address Kyrgyzstan’s most dangerous uranium waste sites​.

According to Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations, the country is home to 92 burial sites containing toxic and radioactive materials.

Important Deal Signed for China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Project

On December 20, Bishkek hosted the signing of an investment agreement between Kyrgyzstan’s Cabinet of Ministers and China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Company LLC. The agreement encompasses the design, construction, financing, operation, and maintenance of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway.

The announcement came shortly after Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov revealed that construction on the strategic railway, which will connect the three nations, is set to begin on December 27.

The agreement was signed by Kyrgyzstan’s Minister of Transport and Communications, Absattar Syrgabaev, and Zhong Shenggui, Chairman of the Board of Directors of China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Company LLC.

The signing ceremony was attended by Kyrgyz Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry Bakyt Torobayev; Li Baojie, Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Kyrgyzstan; and Saidikram Iyazkhodjaev, Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan.

In his remarks, Torobayev called the agreement a historic achievement for the three nations, marking the conclusion of a lengthy negotiation process and the start of practical implementation. “This large-scale infrastructure project is of both regional and international significance,” he emphasized.

The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway is a pivotal development for the transport strategies of the participating countries. Currently, neither Kyrgyzstan nor Uzbekistan has a direct railway link with China, while Central Asia’s rail connection to China is limited to a route through Kazakhstan. Furthermore, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan lack a direct railway link between them.

The project’s significance was cemented on June 6, 2024, when China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan signed an intergovernmental agreement in Beijing. The 523-kilometer railway will traverse Kashgar (China), Torugart, Makmal, Jalal-Abad (Kyrgyzstan), and Andijan (Uzbekistan). Transit and logistics infrastructure will be developed along the route to support its operations.

Once completed, the railway is expected to transport up to 15 million tons of cargo annually, significantly enhancing trade and connectivity in the region.

Kyrgyzstan Cracks Down on Major Religious Extremist Organization

In Jalal-Abad, officers of Kyrgyzstan's State Committee for National Security (SCNS) neutralized one of the largest structural networks of the banned religious extremist organization Hizb ut-Tahrir.

According to the SCNS press service, 22 active members of the organization were detained, including the leader (“masul”), five spiritual leaders (“nakibs”), and eight teachers (“mushrifs”) who taught extremist ideology to small groups of 3-5 students in clandestine settings.

The SCNS reported that the detainees had been actively spreading destructive ideas, recruiting supporters, and distributing extremist materials for several years.

During the operation, authorities discovered an underground printing house where extremist materials were being produced. A large cache of literature, as well as computers and copying equipment, was seized. The SCNS also noted that members of the network used drones to ensure the security of their meetings by detecting possible surveillance by law enforcement agencies.

The detainees are currently being held in the SCNS detention center, and investigations are ongoing to identify additional members of the network and their activities.

Hizb ut-Tahrir is an international religious extremist organization banned in Kyrgyzstan since 2003. Its goal is to establish a global Islamic caliphate by overthrowing secular governments. The organization is particularly active in Kyrgyzstan's southern regions, where it promotes extremist ideology and recruits new members. Kyrgyz authorities have been proactive in combating Hizb ut-Tahrir, regularly detaining its members and working to suppress its activities.