Blog
Crossroads Asia
Mongolia, US Launch Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue
By Bolor Lkhaajav
The two countries tightened relations with back-to-back foreign minister visits.
Central Asians in the Crosshairs of Russia’s Ever-Evolving Migration Regime
By Catherine Putz
New bills speeding up the deportation process and insisting on military registration for new citizens are predicted to spark a “migration crisis” that will largely impact Central Asia.
From Migrants to Militants: Domestic Roots of Central Asian Jihadism in Russia
By Uran Botobekov
The political, socioeconomic, and religious factors driving the radicalization of Central Asian and Caucasian Muslims in Russia are clearly domestic, rather than influenced by the West.
Uzbekistan Sets October Date for Parliamentary Elections
By Catherine Putz
Uzbeks will cast ballots for the 150-member Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis under a new mixed electoral system.
What Explains the Declining Reputation of Higher Education in Uzbekistan?
By Niginakhon Saida
There are many factors, but ultimately a college diploma no longer guarantees employment and the youth of Uzbekistan are skeptical of its necessity.
What Is the SCO Doing Wrong? Lessons From ASEAN and SAARC
By Peter Krasnopolsky
The dynamics of the SCO are more similar to that of SAARC as opposed to the smooth-talking, consensus-seeking ASEAN way.
Brides Too Soon: The Rising Trend of Early Marriages in Uzbekistan
By Niginakhon Saida
Early marriages are on the rise, primarily driven by a growing scarcity of eligible brides.
The Stati v Kazakhstan Saga Ends
By Paolo Sorbello
The parties said they reached a settlement more than a decade after arbitration proceedings started.
Why Did China, Mongolia, and Russia Skip Their Trilateral Leaders’ Summit at This Year’s SCO Gathering?
By Sumiya Chuluunbaatar
Instead, a trilateral foreign ministerial level meeting between China, Mongolia, and Russia was held. What does the change mean?
From Russian Ladas to Chinese BYDs: Central Asia’s Changing Priorities
By Rakshith Shetty
Beijing is steadily drawing the region into its orbit and away from Russia's traditional sphere of influence.
How Kazakhstan’s SCO Chairmanship Has Navigated East-West Tensions
By Nigel Li
Expanding membership risks a loss of focus for the organization, but Kazakhstan has pursued a vision that could be more enduring.
Widening Inequality Between Russia and China on Display at SCO Summit
By Alexander Piechowski
The Astana SCO Summit was Russia’s first as a junior partner to China.