Blog
Crossroads Asia
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s Economic Legacy
By Merdan Amanov
What was the state of the Turkmen economy during Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s presidency?
A Cycle of Perpetual Violence for the Women of Uzbekistan
By Niginakhon bintu Saida
Domestic violence has traditionally been viewed as a “family matter” in Uzbekistan, but the power dynamics are starting to change.
Central Asia’s Shadow Pandemic: Violence Against Women
By Niginakhon Uralova and Svetlana Dzardanova
Restrictions to limit the spread of COVID-19 inadvertently sparked a rise in violence against women and girls in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.
Tokayev Downplays January CSTO Deployment to Kazakhstan
By Catherine Putz
In a recent interview, the Kazakh president again pushed back against those in Russia who say Moscow "saved" Kazakhstan in January.
Mongolia’s ‘1 Billion Tree’ Movement
By Bolor Lkhaajav
The policy was launched to much fanfare, but can the participants follow through on their commitments?
Is There Room in ‘New Kazakhstan’ For New Political Parties?
By Catherine Putz
The troubles of Zhanbolat Mamai make it clear that Kazakh authorities have little interest in genuine political competition.
Geopolitics and China’s Engagement in Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
Beijing might say that there's no geopolitics wrapped up in its regional engagements, but it's plain to see.
Homophobia Feeds Corruption, Abuse in Uzbekistan
By Catherine Putz
Uzbekistan’s LGBTQ community faces discrimination and violence, but the criminalization of sexual relations between men also generates opportunities for extortion and further abuse.
Kazakhstan Leaves ‘Elbasy’ Behind, Approves Constitutional Referendum
By Catherine Putz
With 77 percent voting to approve constitutional changes that nix the "leader of the nation," Nazarbayev's star has truly faded in Kazakhstan.
Will Turkmenistan Join the World Trade Organization?
By Merdan Amanov
Ashgabat formally applied for WTO membership in late 2021. What will it take for Turkmenistan to gain membership?
Rising Soviet Nostalgia in Central Asia: Kyrgyzstan’s Young Pioneers
By Colleen Wood
The seemingly benign commemoration of a Soviet-era youth organization speaks to bigger debates about Kyrgyzstan’s identity.
Kumtor: Kyrgyz Court Cancels $3.2 Billion Fine on Departing Canadian Mining Firm Centerra
By Catherine Putz
The contentious saga of Kumtor Gold Mine is one step closer to completion.