Region
Central Asia
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.
Meet the Women Who Pushed Uzbekistan to Criminalize Domestic Violence
By Niginakhon Saida
These are the women, among many others, who advocated and pushed for Uzbekistan to finally criminalize domestic violence.
Uzbekistan’s President Mirziyoyev Visits Germany
By Catherine Putz
Tashkent's readouts of the president's meetings in Berlin highlight the quest for "multifaceted" cooperation.
A Closer Look at the Growing Chinese Presence in Uzbekistan
By Mukhammadsodik Donaev
Both Chinese expats and Uzbek locals have nuanced views of China’s growing involvement in Uzbekistan.
Report: Kyrgyz, Tajik Forces May Have Committed War Crimes in Border Conflict
By Catherine Putz
Human Rights Watch says in a detailed report on the September 2022 Kyrgyz-Tajik border conflict that forces on both sides may have committed war crimes in targeting civilians.
USCIRF Again Highlights Violations of Religious Freedoms in Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
In its latest annual report, USCIRF recommends designating Tajikistan and Turkmenistan as "countries of particular concern" and asks for Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to be included on the special watch list for religious freedom violators.
As Expected, Uzbek Constitutional Referendum Approved
By Catherine Putz
With Karimovesque numbers and a lack of open debate or opposition, Mirziyoyev's constitution was approved in Uzbekistan.
Tajikistan’s Pamirs: A Perfect Political Storm on the Roof of the World
By Klas Lundström
The table is set for the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast to remain a geopolitical hotspot, as important as it is distant.