Region
Central Asia
Karakalpakstan’s Sovereignty in Mirziyoyev’s Uzbekistan
By Catherine Putz
Karakalpakstan has a constitutional right to secede from Uzbekistan via referendum, but calling for such a vote results in immense pressure and often prison terms.
A New China-Central Asia ‘Blueprint’?
By Ankit Panda and Catherine Putz
What's driving China's outreach to Central Asia in 2023?
In Xi’an, China’s Xi Calls for a ‘Shared Future’ With Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
The summit produced the clearest iteration of Chinese interests in and commitments to Central Asia to date, but there's no "new blueprint" for relations.
Lineup Set for Snap Uzbek Presidential Election
By Catherine Putz
Five parties have nominated four candidates, but only one has any chance at 'winning' Uzbekistan's July 9 snap presidential election.
Turkmen President Pays Visit to Tajikistan
By Catherine Putz
Although they don’t share a border, budding autocratic dynasties Turkmenistan and Tajikistan are close political neighbors.
Kazakhstan Moves to Curtail Parallel Trade to Russia
By Catherine Putz
The cost of electronics and household appliances in Russia may increase by 10-12 percent due to new restrictions at the Kazakh border.
Central Asian Presidents Join Putin for May 9 Victory Day Parade
By Catherine Putz
It is difficult to disentangle the political choices made by Central Asian leaders to attend Moscow’s parade this year from the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Kazakhstan’s Ports: A Vital Node of the Middle Corridor
By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez
While many issues are beyond Astana’s control, having modern and expanded ports will give the Middle Corridor a fighting chance at success.
Uzbekistan-Russia Energy Relations: A Tale of 2 Problems
By Sophia Nina Burna-Asefi
Despite Russia upping the ante on the gas trade, Uzbekistan still has some cards that it can play.
Upcoming China-Central Asia Summit to Offer a ‘New Blueprint’ for Relations
By Catherine Putz
Xi has prepared an "important speech" and the six leaders are expected to jointly sign an "important political document.”
Uzbek President Calls for Snap Elections
By Catherine Putz
In the wake of the constitutional referendum extending the presidential term from five to seven years, Mirziyoyev called for a new presidential election.
Will Jehovah’s Witness Shamil Khakimov Be Released From Prison in Tajikistan?
By Catherine Putz
Jailed in 2019 on charges of “inciting religious hatred,” Shamil Khakimov’s jail term ends on May 16. But he may not be released.