Blog
Crossroads Asia
Nur Otan No More? Kazakhstan’s Ruling Party Rebrands as ‘Amanat’
By Catherine Putz
De-Nazarbayevification continues with the renaming of the ruling Nur Otan party to “Amanat.”
Ukraine: The View From Central Asia
By Umida Hashimova
The Central Asian states were caught off guard by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Responses have varied from silence to concern to outright support.
Mongolia and Japan Celebrate 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations
By Bolor Lkhaajav and Bolorerdene Bazarsuren
Since 1972, the relationship has grown from economic assistance to include educational exchanges and security cooperation.
Amid Anti-Corruption Drive, Tokayev Faces Questions About Offshore Wealth
By Paolo Sorbello
Kazakhstan's President Tokayev is vocal against corruption, but faces tough questions after new leaks.
Uzbekistan Seeks Information On Citizens Still Detained After Kazakhstan’s January Unrest
By Catherine Putz
Uzbekistan sent a second note to Kazakhstan about the Uzbek citizens who remain in detention after having been rounded up during the January unrest.
Kazakhstan, Ukraine, and Russia: Unrest and Uncertainty
By Mercy A. Kuo
Insights from George Voloshin
Could a New President in Turkmenistan Provide an Opportunity for the US to Promote Reform?
By Sebastien Peyrouse
It may turn out that Serdar is just like his father, and nothing will change in Turkmenistan. But new opportunities for engagement amid leadership change are worth exploring.
Uzbekistan’s Second Wives Marry in Secret and Suffer Without Legal Protections
By Niginakhon Uralova
Polygyny is not legal in Uzbekistan, yet some men seek out second wives anyway.
Veteran Opposition Figure Resurfaces in Kazakhstan
By Paolo Sorbello
Could Bulat Abilov re-enter politics?
Turkmenistan Set for Dynastic Succession: Early Election March 12, President’s Son Running
By Catherine Putz
President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov did not explicitly state he would step down, but the implication seemed clear when he called for early elections and said it was time to open the way for "young leaders."
Uzbek Justice Ministry Sounds Alarm Over Divisive Religious Messaging
By Umida Hashimova
The Justice Ministry is alarmed about religious figures whose teachings blur the line between religion, their personal moral views, and the law.
China, Mongolia Finalize Major Railroad Crossing Points
By Bolor Lkhaajav
Mongolia has been pushing for progress on the Gashuunsukhait-Gantsmod railway in particular for years.