The Diplomat | Author
Albert Otkjær
Albert Otkjær is a journalist focusing on post-Soviet countries.
Albert holds a bachelor’s degree in Russian studies and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in journalism.
Albert’s work explores political and social developments in Central Asia and Eastern Europe. As part of his bachelor’s degree, he examined the motivations behind active protest in Kazakhstan, drawing on interviews with civil society actors in the country.
July 15, 2025
Kazakhstan Bans Veils in an Effort to Heighten Security
By Albert Otkjær
As the last country in Central Asia to do so, Kazakhstan has outlawed face coverings to increase public safety, a move that might put religious groups under pressure.
July 01, 2025
Propaganda, Pay, and Prison: The Kazakhs Fighting in Ukraine
By Albert Otkjær
While many Central Asian migrants have been coerced or pressured into fighting for Russia in Ukraine, a number of Kazakh citizens have taken up arms voluntarily.
June 24, 2025
A Business Hub for Central Asia’s Elite? What to Expect From Alatau
By Albert Otkjær
While Tokayev’s vision of a futuristic Singapore-style city is slowly getting started, it takes a different development approach than Astana did. Still, questions over financing and local impact persist.
May 27, 2025
Russia and Kazakhstan’s Growing Lists of Undesirables
By Albert Otkjær
Since 2022, the number of individuals barred from entering either Russia or Kazakhstan has grown significantly.
May 14, 2025
Kazakhstan’s Slow Shift Away From Celebrating Victory Day
By Albert Otkjær
While the Soviet victory in World War II 80 years ago is still celebrated today, its form has changed to be less about Soviet heritage, and more about Kazakh national identity.
April 30, 2025
Kazakhstan’s Pragmatic Road Toward Europe
By Albert Otkjær
Strengthening ties with the EU could recalibrate the country’s balancing act between Russia and the West, especially when it comes to sanctions enforcement.
April 08, 2025
Kazakhstan’s Ambivalent Relationship With the CSTO
By Albert Otkjær
The recent controversy surrounding CSTO General Secretary Imangali Tasmagambetov reveals the instability of the organization’s relationship with Kazakhstan.
March 25, 2025
No Aid, All Investments: The Future of Chinese Engagement in Kazakhstan
By Albert Otkjær
With U.S. aid diminished, it seems unlikely that China will fill the gap. Beijing favors investments in infrastructure over civil society.
March 03, 2025
Kazakhstan’s Foreign Agent Law Proposal Could Severely Impact Civil Society and Media Freedom
By Albert Otkjær
As Kazakhstan debates stricter regulations on foreign-funded NGOs and media, some organizations are already closing down due to the freeze on USAID funding.
Page 1 of 1