Blog
Crossroads Asia
What Does the US Withdrawal From Afghanistan Mean for Central Asia?
By Iskander Akylbayev and Nurtas Janibekov
The withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan may produce new security threats, but there will be economic consequences as well.
Uzbek Authorities Deny Registration to New Political Party With Presidential Ambitions
By Catherine Putz
Khidirnazar Allaqulov’s first attempt to register his Haqiqat va Taraqqiyot (Truth and Development) Social Democratic Party has been refused by state authorities amid a pressure campaign.
EU-Kazakhstan Aim to Cooperate on Green Projects
By Wilder Alejandro Sanchez
The Kazakh government is looking to diversify its economy and develop new industries while also promoting environmental protection.
Kazakhstan Bans Sale of Agricultural Lands to Foreigners
By Catherine Putz
The land code protests of 2016 were a rare occurrence and yielded a rare outcome: a shift in state policy.
Centerra Seeks Arbitration Over Kyrgyz Gold Mine
By Paolo Sorbello
After “meritless” tax and environmental claims and a new law threatening the ownership of the mine, the Canadian investor has escalated the dispute.
Young People, Social Media, and Urban Transformation of Dushanbe
By Sher Khashimov and Tahmina Inoyatova
In the Tajik capital, young people turn to social media to document and discuss the changing face of the city.
Russian Foreign Minister Finally Responds to Kazakh Sovereignty Worries
By Alimana Zhanmukanova
Five months after controversial comments regarding Kazakh territory, Lavrov dismisses them as coming from deputies “chasing after sensations.”
Uzbek Blogger Otabek Sattoriy Sentenced to 6.5 Years
By Catherine Putz
Otabek Sattoriy, a blogger who often covered local corruption, has been sentenced on charges of extortion and libel.
Kyrgyzstan’s Worrying New Limits on Dissent
By Colleen Wood
Kyrgyzstan’s president continues to sharpen the country’s legal code as a tool to limit dissent.
Vaccinations Progress Slowly in Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
For myriad reasons, vaccination programs in Central Asia are proceeding slowly. Hesitancy is one factor.
How Mongolia Made the Most of Vaccine Diplomacy
By Bolor Lkhaajav
Mongolia has received vaccines not only from neighbors China and Russia, but from India and COVAX as well.
US Afghan Envoy Visits Uzbekistan, Tajikistan
By Catherine Putz
As the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan begins, some suspect Washington is looking for nearby basing options.