Blog
Crossroads Asia
Soccer School Sparks Controversy in Kyrgyzstan
By Colleen Wood
FC Barcelona visited Kyrgyzstan to inaugurate two new football academies. Japarov is touchy about investigations into how the schools are funded.
Uzbeks, an Islamic State Smuggler, and the US Border
By Catherine Putz
A recent CNN report revealed that a smuggler with prior ties to the Islamic State may have helped a group of Uzbek nationals enter the U.S. We should not be surprised.
Can Islamic Finance Drive Banking Sector Development in Uzbekistan?
By Shokhrukhkhuja Fakhriddinkhujaev
Although there are challenges, such as a lack of legislation and expertise, Islamic finance may present new avenues for attracting investment.
Internet Shutdown Pushback in Kazakhstan
By Catherine Putz
Kazakh legislation allows various government entities to slow and stop internet traffic, as occurred to tragic ends in January 2022. A group of NGOs wants the practice stopped for good.
Kyrgyzstan’s Kloop in the Crosshairs Over Critical Coverage
By Catherine Putz
The Kyrgyz media outlet, known for its reporting on corruption, is under pressure once again for publishing materials “aimed at sharply criticizing the policies of the current government.”
The Hidden Cause Behind Mongolia’s Deadly Summer Floods
By Bolor Lkhaajav
Poor urban planning threatens public health in Mongolia, as demonstrated by the recent flooding.
Kyrgyzstan to Return Issyk-Kul Resorts to Uzbekistan
By Colleen Wood
Ownership of four lakeside resorts built during the Soviet period is another facet of water diplomacy in Central Asia.
Will We Soon See a Central Asia-US Leaders’ Summit?
By Catherine Putz
If Biden does indeed meet with the Central Asian presidents in New York on the sidelines of UNGA it will be with both Russia and China in mind.
Why Is Pope Francis Visiting Mongolia?
By Michel Chambon
Despite the distance and his declining health, Pope Francis is giving priority to Mongolia. There are three main reasons for that.
Digitalization: How the EU Can Transform Central Asia
By Alouddin Komilov
The EU has the potential to contribute to the digital transformation of Central Asia by leveraging its comparative strengths.
Atambayev Allies Courting Diplomatic Relationships
By Colleen Wood
Kyrgyzstan’s Social Democrats have limited influence on domestic politics. What to make of their sustained push for international partnerships?
Trans-Caspian Route: Kazakhstan’s Gateway to Europe
By Rahimbek Abdrahmanov and Kamshat Zhumagulova
For Kazakhstan, in particular, the development of the Middle Corridor offers broader access to global markets.