Blog
Crossroads Asia
Matraimov Corruption Trial to Begin February 3
By Catherine Putz
Will Japarov’s economic amnesty allow Matraimov to avoid jail time?
With New PM, a New Generation Taking Charge in Mongolia
By Julian Dierkes and Bolor Lkhaajav
Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene represents a new type of Mongolian leader: a younger, Western-educated professional with a strong policy focus.
If Only It Were That Easy: Tajikistan Declares Itself COVID-19 Free
By Catherine Putz
The Tajik president commented that “Tajikistan today is without COVID-19" -- close regional observers (and common sense) disagree.
Why Kazakhstan Joined New Investment Partnership With Uzbekistan, US
By Wilder Alejandro Sanchez
Kazakhstan is working toward a more diversified economy.
The Taxman Cometh for Kazakh NGOs
By Catherine Putz
In January so far, four Kazakh NGOs have been fined and suspended by the state's tax authorities -- a convenient cover for political repression.
Uzbekistan Takes Further Steps Toward Eurasian Economic Union
By Umida Hashimova
Tashkent’s 2021 strategy directs several government agencies to align with a number of EAEU regulations.
Mongolia’s Prime Minister Offers Shock Resignation Amid Protests
By Bolor Lkhaajav
Instability roils Mongolia’s political apparatus in the midst of a global pandemic.
In Lifting Trump Travel Bans, Biden Removes Visa Restrictions on Kyrgyzstan
By Catherine Putz
Some travel restrictions remain due to COVID-19, but Kyrgyzstan is no longer subject to a direct U.S. visa ban.
Murky Waters Surround the Case of the Sardoba Reservoir Failure
By Catherine Putz
A trial is ongoing, but behind closed doors, while citizens complain of unfair distribution of promised compensation.
Should Europe Worry About Kyrgyzstan?
By Ana-Maria Anghelescu
Sadyr Japarov’s rise to power and a return to presidentialism demonstrate the limits of democracy promotion in Kyrgyzstan.
Dariga Nazarbayeva Headed Back to Parliament
By Catherine Putz
The first president’s daughter is on the list of 76 deputies Nur Otan aims to seat in the new parliament.
Winter Energy Woes Bedevil Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan have all suffered in recent months from shortages and blackouts, their citizens experiencing cold nights and darkened lights.