Blog
Crossroads Asia
Is Turkmenistan Nearing a COVID-19 Announcement?
By Catherine Putz
Turkmenistan’s denial of the virus’ presence in the country has inevitably cost lives. Not naming it doesn’t make it go away.
Tajikistan’s Most Fearless Lawyer Remains Behind Bars
By Catherine Putz
Buzurgmehr Yorov bravely took on the defense of the IRPT leadership and, like his clients, lost his freedom.
Protests in Kazakhstan Disrupted With Arrests
By Catherine Putz
This weekend’s protests in Kazakhstan took place under a new law, but had the same results.
Despite Observer Choice, Uzbek Officials Sell Benefits of Full Eurasian Economic Union Membership
By Umida Hashimova
Uzbekistan is joining the union as an an observer, but its officials have been promising the benefits of a full member.
COVID-19 Cases at Kazakhstan’s Tengiz Oil Field Top 1,000
By Catherine Putz
Two-thirds of the field’s workforce were sent home late last month, but it continues to grow as a virus hotspot.
Kyrgyz Authorities Make Corruption Accusation Against Journalist
By Catherine Putz
Kyrgyz authorities allege, with the hearsay of a single witness, that journalists involved in a massive investigation of corruption took payment to report.
What Are the Implications of China’s Growing Security Role in Central Asia?
By Ian J.Lynch
China’s rise in Central Asia has been swift.
Former President Atambayev Barred From His Own Trial
By Catherine Putz
The former president reportedly refused to sit in the box with the other defendants.
What’s the Impact of Turkmenistan’s COVID Delusion?
By Catherine Putz
Turkmenistan says it is COVID-19 free, but the virus, analysts say, is impacting the country whether Ashgabat admits its presence or not.
Hotel Uzbekistan Privatized to Holding in Singapore
By Paolo Sorbello
Bashan Investment Group owns film production companies in Asia and, now, Tashkent's most recognizable building.
How to Talk About Feminism in Tajikistan
By Lolisanam Ulugova
Issues of feminism and gender activism in Tajik society are controversial.
US-Afghanistan-Uzbekistan Trilateral Tests Out New Format for Engagement
By Catherine Putz
The new trilateral fits into existing efforts to increase regional cooperation and integrate Afghanistan’s into Central Asian thinking.