Blog
Crossroads Asia
Kazakhstan: After the Pandemic Recovery, New Pressures From the Ukraine War
By Catherine Putz
After recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic shockwave, Kazakhstan will see its growth prospects take a hit due to reverberations from the war in Ukraine.
Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan Dispatch Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine
By Catherine Putz
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have both sent planeloads of humanitarian aid -- largely medicine and food -- to Ukraine.
Youth Protest Stretches Into Day 2 in Mongolia
By Bolor Lkhaajav
The voice of the youth and their peaceful protests have historical resonance for Mongolia’s democracy.
Tourism in Uzbekistan: After the Pandemic, a New Strategy
By Surayyo Usmanova
Battered by the pandemic, the tourism industry is critical to post-pandemic economic recovery in Uzbekistan.
Central Asia Sides With Russia in UN Human Rights Council Vote
By Catherine Putz
The resolution to expel Russia passed, but the region’s vote against it highlights the difficulty and complexity of Central Asia's position.
Small Shuffles in the Turkmen Cabinet of Ministers
By Catherine Putz
Mere weeks after reappointing his father’s cabinet, the younger Berdimuhamedov has begun to make some personnel changes.
MMA Fighter Facing Charges in Tajikistan Over Pro-Pamiri Comments
By Catherine Putz
The trial made an unexpected turn when an expert said Chorshanbe Chorshanbiev’s comments did not actually contain a call to violence.
European Energy Security: An Opportunity for Kazakhstan’s Uranium Industry
By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez
Kazakhstan, the world’s leading uranium producer, stands to benefit from a possible European transition from Russian gas to domestic nuclear power.
Centerra and Kyrgyzstan Reach Agreement to Split After Kumtor Gold Mine Mess
By Catherine Putz
If implemented, the agreement would see the Canadian mining firm exit Kyrgyzstan after a tumultuous 20 years and Bishkek assume responsibility for the mine.
Kazakhstan: Diplomatic Blitz in Europe Amid War in Ukraine
By Catherine Putz
If Kazakhstan can deftly maneuver between Russia and Europe, it stands to benefit economically and politically.
Uzbekistan Looks South for New Trade Routes
By Sophia Nina Burna-Asefi
Uzbekistan’s position in the middle of Central Asia is a source of strength but also vulnerability.
Kyrgyz Authorities Try to Head off Protests With Restrictions
By Colleen Wood
Kyrgyzstani authorities are restricting protests about Russia’s war in Ukraine, but some public servants are speaking out.