Blog
Crossroads Asia
The Shrinking Caspian Sea: An Environmental and Geopolitical Emergency
By Vadim Ni
Allowing the Caspian Sea to succumb to industrial exploitation and climate-induced desiccation would be an irreversible tragedy.
Kyrgyzstan’s Social Democrats Under Pressure
By Catherine Putz
Ten years ago, the country's Social Democrats were riding high.
Alleged Coup Trial in Tajikistan: Prosecutors Seek Lengthy Sentences
By Catherine Putz
Prosecutors are asking for 20-30 year sentences for eight defendants presumably accused of a coup plot about which there are very few details available.
2025: Decision Time for the Kazakh Economy
By Benjamin Godwin
To meet its own investment targets and decarbonize its economy, the Tokayev administration needs to fully commit to its economic program in 2025.
Tajikistan and the Russian Scheme to Pay Taliban to Target Americans in Afghanistan
By Catherine Putz
The GRU spent tens of millions of dollars funding terrorist groups in Afghanistan to target U.S. and NATO forces, and routed funds and weapons through Tajikistan to accomplish its aims.
Kyrgyz, Tajik, Uzbek Prime Ministers Meet at Trilateral Junction
By Catherine Putz
The meeting heralded the significant progress made in the last year on the three countries’ once-tense borders.
Could Afghanistan’s Qoshtepa Canal Worsen Water Scarcity in Central Asia?
By Andrew Kuchins and Elvira Aidarkhanova
The canal's completion could exacerbate regional conflict, but also presents an opportunity for regional cooperation.
More than 750 Central Asians Were Deported from the US in FY2024
By Catherine Putz
Although Central Asians represent a tiny fraction of those removed from the U.S., the numbers have exploded over the last year.
Mongolia’s Political Double Speak on Combating Air Pollution
By Bolor Lkhaajav
For decades, policymakers have promised the same solutions, but implementation remains far behind the rhetoric.
Leftover Shell Explodes in Kyrgyz Village
By Catherine Putz
Unexploded ordnance left over from the 2022 conflict pose risks to populations in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, even as the two governments finalize a border deal.
China vs India: Economic Outreach to Central Asia
By Daniel Balazs
Despite similar interests and ambitions, China’s economic presence in the region outweighs India’s.
Uzbek Driver Punished for ‘Petty Hooliganism’ Following Gas Station Outburst
By Catherine Putz
After waiting six hours, Gayrat Dustov couldn’t fill his tank. His anger landed him in jail for 15 days but engendered sympathy among the public.
Page 1 of 226