Country
Kazakhstan
In Central Asia, Torture Persists, as Does Impunity
By Alva Omarova
No one should be subjected to torture at any time and in any circumstances. Central Asian governments must continue to strive to stamp out this illegal and inhuman practice.
Kazakh Betting Law Saga Continues
By Adilbek Abdulov
Once signed into law, the Kazakh government will essentially discharge the most significant regulatory responsibilities in the betting industry to an unknown entity.
The West Is Laser-Focused on Central Asia’s Middle Corridor. So Is China.
By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez
For more commodities to move west from Central Asia, better infrastructure, more inter-agency cooperation, and modern customs systems are necessary.
South Korean President Yoon Sweeping Through Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
Yoon follows in the footsteps of his two predecessors in traveling to Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan this week.
India in the Caucasus and Central Asia: The Giant Next Door
By Oleg Abdurashitov and Eldaniz Gusseinov
The shift from a security-focused engagement to broader cooperation with the Caucasus and Central Asian states underscores India’s pursuit of strategic depth.
Does the Sanctioned Daughter of the Kremlin’s Press Chief Have a Kazakh Bank Account?
By Catherine Putz
A recent report suggests that Elizaveta Peskova may have registered for an individual identification number in Kazakhstan -- that in turn may have enabled her to access the Kazakh banking system.
Kazakh President Explains Decision to Take Taliban off Terrorist List
By Catherine Putz
The decision was announced back in December, but recently Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev remarked that it was made with “the understanding that this regime is a long-term factor.”
Former Almaty Police Deputy Head Detained in January 2022 Torture Case
By Catherine Putz
Kyrgyz jazz musician Vikram Ruzakhunov was detained, tortured, and forced to make a false confession amid the chaos of the January 2022 events. It’s yet to be seen if justice will be ultimately served.
A Trojan Horse? The New Kazakh Gambling Legislation Needs a Closer Look
By Adilbek Abdulov
The betting industry in Kazakhstan is profitable, making the question of who controls its profits of utmost importance.
Germany’s Zeitenwende: Turning Toward Central Asia?
By Timon Ostermeier and Eldaniz Gusseinov
Bilateral contacts between Berlin and the region have intensified considerably since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but many challenges remain.
Competing Digital Futures: Europe and China in Central Asia’s Tech Development
By Andrew Gundal and Eldaniz Gusseinov
Both the EU and China aim to establish technological leadership in Central Asia, but their focuses differ.
Viral Bishimbayev Trial in Kazakhstan Ends With 24-Year Sentence
By Colleen Wood
Under Kazakhstan’s hybrid jury model, jurors and the judge make a final decision together. In this case, the former minister was convicted of murdering his wife and handed a long sentence.