Region

Central Asia

Central Asia’s Strategic Insecurity in a Turbulent World

Central Asia’s Strategic Insecurity in a Turbulent World

By Sardor Allayarov
Can Central Asian states continue their multi-vector diplomacy, or will they be forced to choose between the U.S. and China?

Tajikistan Decriminalizes ‘Likes’ Online

Tajikistan Decriminalizes ‘Likes’ Online

By Catherine Putz
A 2018 amendment had opened the door to criminal prosecution, and up to 15 years in jail, for “liking” or reacting online with an emoji to content deemed to be extremist.
Risk and Reward in Central Asia’s Critical Raw Materials Boom

Risk and Reward in Central Asia’s Critical Raw Materials Boom

By Nazerke Mukhamediya and Dana Ubaidolla
As Brussels, Beijing, Moscow, and Washington scramble to secure key materials for clean energy and new tech, they have begun to size up the region's potential.

Central Asian Conference of Women Journalists Abruptly Cancelled in Dushanbe

Central Asian Conference of Women Journalists Abruptly Cancelled in Dushanbe

By Kulobiddin Norov
While it is unclear who stands behind the push to cancel the event, it is another sign of the deterioration of press freedom in the region.

Kazakhstan’s Slow Shift Away From Celebrating Victory Day

Kazakhstan’s Slow Shift Away From Celebrating Victory Day

By Albert Otkjær
While the Soviet victory in World War II 80 years ago is still celebrated today, its form has changed to be less about Soviet heritage, and more about Kazakh national identity.

What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?
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What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?

Uzbekistan and Afghanistan: A New Era of Limited Recognition

Uzbekistan and Afghanistan: A New Era of Limited Recognition

By Islomkhon Gafarov, Hamza Boltaev, and Bobur Mingyasharov
Uzbekistan’s current Afghanistan policy appears to be inching toward greater practical cooperation with its “circumstantial” partner, the Taliban government. 

20 Years Since Andijan, Remembering Past Abuses in Uzbekistan

20 Years Since Andijan, Remembering Past Abuses in Uzbekistan

By Mihra Rittmann
Addressing the lack of accountability for past human rights abuses, including the 2005 Andijan massacre, has not been high on the current government’s agenda.
Russian Pressure and Kazakhstan’s Embattled Civil Society

Russian Pressure and Kazakhstan’s Embattled Civil Society

By Henry De Jong
Astana’s balancing act is becoming ever more precarious, with civil society caught in the crossfire at a moment when its voice is needed most.

When Development Finance Does More Harm than Good: The Case of Indorama Agro in Uzbekistan

When Development Finance Does More Harm than Good: The Case of Indorama Agro in Uzbekistan

By Lynn Schweisfurth, Caitlin Daniel, and Nina Lesikhina
In January 2025, Indorama Agro abruptly prepaid its loans and walked away from its contractual obligation to implement the EBRD’s E&S standards in Uzbekistan.

The Dimash Phenomenon: Kazakhstan’s Soft Power

The Dimash Phenomenon: Kazakhstan’s Soft Power

By Zhengisbek Tolen and Zhangeldi Agybay
By promoting Kazakh music, enhancing international relations, boosting tourism, and leveraging digital influence, Dimash Qudaibergen has assumed a pivotal role in Kazakhstan’s soft power strategy.

PACE Issues Declaration on Afghan Women in Central Asia

PACE Issues Declaration on Afghan Women in Central Asia

By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez
Members of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe recently signed a declaration noting the dire situation of Afghan women and girls, some of whom are in Central Asia receiving education.
Russian Raids Target Central Asians in Cafes, Bathhouses

Russian Raids Target Central Asians in Cafes, Bathhouses

By Catherine Putz
Central Asian governments have been meek in the face of Moscow's repeated targeting of the region’s citizens. 

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