Country
Kazakhstan
Tokayev Secures Presidency in Old Kazakhstan-Style Early Election
By Catherine Putz
In “New Kazakhstan,” an typical old Kazakhstan-style election grants Tokayev power through 2029.
What to Expect from Tokayev’s Second Term
By Benjamin Godwin
As certain as his re-election may be, Kazakhstan's leader faces a pressing array of domestic and international challenges.
US Focuses Attention on Central Asia With New Economic Initiative
By Catherine Putz
U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu's trip to Central Asia seeks to “reinforce the United States’ commitment to each country’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity."
What’s Wrong With State Capitalism in Kazakhstan?
By Rakhimbek Abdrakhmanov
If Kazakhstan wants long-term economic growth, it needs economic and political constraints and counterweights.
Kazakh Opposition Politician Zhanbolat Mamai Released to House Arrest
By Catherine Putz
After eight months in jail, and mounting pressure, the charges against Mamai were recently reclassified and he's been released to house arrest.
Germany Eyes Green Hydrogen Potential in Kazakhstan
By Catherine Putz
And in Uzbekistan, Berlin sees a rising regional power.
What’s Next for Russians Who Fled to Kazakhstan?
By Aliya Askar
In the early 1990s, ethnic Russians left Kazakhstan in droves. In 2022, that flow once again reversed as Russians fled into Central Asia.
Weeks After Russia-Central Asia Leaders’ Meeting, Europe Comes Calling Too
By Catherine Putz
With Ukraine in mind, the European Union is courting Central Asia, even if it means overlooking the region’s autocratic “democracies.”
Kyrgyz Ministry Blocks RFE/RL Website Over Kyrgyz-Tajik Border Report
By Catherine Putz
Last year, Kyrgyzstan passed a “fake news” law. This year, it’s been used to suspend access to at least two media outlets.
Kazakhstan’s Former Health Minister Accuses ‘Medical Mafia’ of Meddling
By Paolo Sorbello
The trial of the former health minister could shed light on the direction of “New Kazakhstan.”
New Military Doctrine Strengthens Kazakhstan’s Multi-vector Posture
By Gregory Gleason
The new version of Kazakhstan’s military doctrine signals that Astana intends to hold fast to the principles of national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Russia’s War in Ukraine and Its Impact on Central Asia
By Yunis Sharifli, Chia-Lin Kao , and Bermet Derbishova
The war’s negative impacts on regional economies outweigh any incidental benefits, and Central Asians know it.