Region
Central Asia
Low Turnout and a Victory for Kazakhstan’s Ruling Party in Parliamentary Polls
By Catherine Putz
Despite hundreds of independent self-nominated candidates, Kazakhstan’s new parliament will much resemble its former self.
Joyful and Angry: A Feminist Demonstration in Kazakhstan
By Paolo Sorbello
Pressured not to hold a march, feminist groups in Almaty gathered in their hundreds for a rally anyway.
Kazakhstan Impounds Property of Roscosmos Subsidiary
By Catherine Putz
A debt dispute sits atop a host of other political risks, inserting uncertainty into operations at the important Baikonur spaceport.
Another Uzbek Killed in Ukraine
By Niginakhon Saida
Uzbek migrant workers in Russia, and those serving time in Russian prisons, are particularly vulnerable to recruitment into the Russian military.
The Aura of Governance in Turkmenistan
By Victoria Clement
A year after assuming the presidency, Serdar Berdimuhamedov lives even deeper in the shadow of his father.
Kazakhstan’s General Shuffle: Tracing Tokayev’s Military Personnel Changes
By Francisco Olmos
In the wake of Qandy Qantar, Kazakh President Tokayev shook up the military brass. Where do things stand now?
Unpacking Geopolitical Competition and Energy Security in Central Asia
By Catherine Putz
A U.S. Senate subcommittee recently explored U.S. policy toward Central Asia amid the war in Ukraine and intense concern about global energy security.
Final Draft of Constitutional Amendments Reportedly Ready in Uzbekistan
By Catherine Putz
There’s still no date for the referendum, but it’s clear Uzbekistan’s government is gearing up to push forward its desired constitutional update.
Central Asians Face Entry Denial at Georgian Border
By Niginakhon Saida
Several Central Asians report being turned away recently at the Georgian border with no detailed explanation.
How, and Why, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan Shut Down the Internet
By Rustam Muhamedov and Dana Buralkiyeva
The national elites in both countries do not shy away from implementing excessive measures in the online sphere, including switching off communications completely.
Is Iran Distancing Itself From the Taliban Government?
By Hamza Boltaev
Iran is arguably disappointed with the Taliban, but will Tehran take a step back from the relationship?
International Women’s Day: Flowers or ‘the Language of Force’ for Women in Central Asia?
By Mia Tarp Nurmagambetova
Central Asian governments must do more to provide a robust response to domestic violence, equal protection to survivors of abuse, and protect women’s rights both in policy and practice.