Link: http://english.aljazeera.net/programmes/peopleandpower/2011/03/2011331101737911390.html

The former Soviet state of Uzbekistan has become an important ally for both the US and NATO; its border with Afghanistan providing an invaluable supply route for the West's war on the Taliban. But its government, led by Islam Karimov, the country's president, has a dreadful human rights record. It is a country where political and religious expression is heavily restricted, and where security services allegedly use torture and murder indiscriminately. Thousands of Uzbeks have fled abroad - a few to Europe or the US, the majority to neighbouring countries in Central Asia. Mostly practising Muslims, they seek sanctuary from the violence and a chance to live in peace. ►President Karimov of Uzbekistan, Boils People Alive ►US Money Funding Uzbeki Torture Chambers ►Evidence of Karimov’s Crimes – and CIA Participation