During World War II, thousands of Jews from Russia and Eastern Europe fled east seeking safety in the far reaches of the Soviet Union. An estimated 40,000 Jews wound up in Kyrgyzstan. Many later left for Israel, but you can still find Jewish corners of Kyrgyz cemeteries. In some places, neglected gravestones topped by Stars of David are some of the only reminders of this history. Levi Bridges takes a walk through several Jewish cemeteries.
The article you just read is free because dedicated readers and listeners like you chose to support our nonprofit newsroom. Our team works tirelessly to ensure you hear the latest in international, human-centered reporting every weekday. But our work would not be possible without you. We need your help.
Make a gift today to help us reach our $25,000 goal and keep The World going strong. Every gift will get us one step closer.