Blog
Crossroads Asia
How Iran and Turkey Compete in Central Asian Trade
By Omid Rahimi and Ali Heydari
A closer look at how two pivotal players factor into subregional dynamics in this domain.
Arrests at Rallies as Kazakhstan Contemplates New Protest Law
By Catherine Putz
As many as 200 were arrested for attending a pair of unsanctioned rallies. Meanwhile, a proposed law promises more of the same.
Kyrgyzstan’s Parliamentary Polls: An Open Field
By Colleen Wood
Kyrgyzstan will have parliamentary elections in October; party fractionalization means the race is anyone’s game.
Kyrgyz-Chinese Joint Venture Scrapped After Protests
By Catherine Putz
A deal with China to build a $275 million logistics center in Naryn region has been cancelled.
Is Kazakhstan Nipping Opposition in the Bud?
By Catherine Putz
Arrests and arson delay Kazakh opposition groups from gathering.
Before and Beyond 5G: Central Asia’s Huawei Connections
By Umida Hashimova
Huawei and Central Asian countries have special and long-lasting relations that are here to stay.
A New Era of Strategic Partnership: The US Engages to Find Opportunities in Central Asia
By Kristen Cheriegate
Central Asia will generally welcome -- and want -- U.S. attention, but will want a degree of circumspection.
Kyrgyz Customs Officer Reportedly Under Investigation
By Catherine Putz
A customs official named in the bombshell OCCRP, RFE/RL, and Kloop investigation last year is reportedly under official investigation.
Mongolia Suspends Traditional Lunar Near Year Celebrations Due to Coronavirus Concerns
By Tergel Bold-erdene
Despite the importance of the holiday to the Mongolian people, there is broad support for the government’s decision to suspend celebrations.
Turkmenistan President’s Son Appointed Minister
By Catherine Putz
Given Serdar’s trajectory, it’s hard not to believe he’s heading for the presidency once day.
Violence in Kazakhstan Turns Deadly for Dungans
By Paolo Sorbello
Ten were killed in clashes that followed ethnic lines, but betrayed long-standing socioeconomic dissatisfaction.
US Pledges $2 Million to Uzbekistan
By Umida Hashimova
The true nature of U.S. investment in Uzbekistan, and all of Central Asia, is broader than just direct financial assistance packages.