Country
Kazakhstan
Kazakh Court Extends Karakalpak Activist Muratbai’s Detention to 1 Year
By Catherine Putz
The extension of Muratbai’s detention follows a pattern in which Kazakh authorities detain Karakalpak activists pending extradition requests from Uzbekistan for the maximum time allowed by law.
Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan Agree to Install Transboundary Water Meters
By Catherine Putz
While water is often characterized as a potential spark for conflict in Central Asia, it is at the same time an opportunity for cooperation.
US Looks to Draw Central Asia Into Critical Minerals Supply Chains
By The Diplomat
What are the strategic interests of the United States in the development of deposits of critical minerals in Central Asia?
Alleged ISKP Plot Foiled in Russia, 2 Kazakh Citizens Killed
By Catherine Putz
Kazakh authorities have confirmed the citizenship of two men killed in an FSB raid in Russia last week, allegedly forestalling an ISKP attack.
The Middle Corridor: A Renaissance in Global Commerce
By Hunter Stoll
Although the Middle Corridor offers promise, its journey toward becoming a viable strategic alternative to existing trade routes will be met with tough challenges.
Comparing Chinese and Indian Energy Security Strategies in Central Asia
By Kashif Hasan Khan and Marin Ekstrom
In terms of energy security, China is currently edging out India for influence in Central Asia.
US Puts Additional Central Asian Companies on Russia Sanctions List
By Catherine Putz
The latest round of sanctions designations included a Kyrgyzstan-based company and two firms based in Kazakhstan.
Karakalpak Activist Muratbai Given Asylum Seeker Status in Kazakhstan
By Catherine Putz
The certificate delays his extradition to Uzbekistan and could lead to the granting of refugee status. But in practice, the country rarely grants refugee status to anyone.
Slow Suffocation in Central Asia
By Alva Omarova
A lack of political will on the part of Central Asian governments prevents the region from dealing seriously with its air quality problem.
Prominent Karakalpak Activist Aqylbek Muratbai Facing Extradition From Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan
By Catherine Putz
Muratbai has been a vital voice in calling attention to Uzbekistan's persecution of the Karakalpak people. His detention in Kazakhstan is yet another warning shot.
Japan’s Role in Healing the Aral Sea and Engaging Central Asia
By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez and Marin Ekstrom
Tokyo is a quiet but important partner to Central Asia, with notable engagement on projects related to the Aral Sea.
Kazakhstan Appoints a New Government
By Paolo Sorbello
It’s a timid reshuffling that is unlikely to shake things up.