Region
Central Asia
The Vatican’s Diplomacy in Central Asia
By Michel Chambon
Pope Francis’ recent trip to Central Asia cemented the importance of Asian countries in the Vatican’s global strategy – and the pope’s willingness to engage with political issues.
Russia Opens More Border Draft Offices Amid Call-up Exodus
By Associated Press
Russian officials said they would hand call-up notices to all eligible men who were trying to leave the country.
Can Russia Still Be a Dependable ‘Sheriff’ for Eurasia?
By Janko Šćepanović
After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, its role as a security guarantor for Central Asia and the Caucasus is in serious doubt.
Reliance on Hydrocarbons Still Key for Kazakhstan
By Paolo Sorbello
Bullish talk about oil and gas at an industry conference has pushed back the country's energy transition plans.
Kyrgyz Journalist Bolot Temirov Acquitted of Drugs Charges, Released
By Catherine Putz
And so ends a prosecution that many human rights activists characterized as persecution.
The Difficult Path Toward De-escalation on the Kyrgyz-Tajik Border
By Catherine Putz
A protocol reportedly signed over the weekend would see both vacate four border posts each but is shadowed by domestic critiques in Kyrgyzstan and a lack of clarity in Tajikistan.
Kazakh President Urges Calm and Care for Russians Fleeing Mobilization
By Catherine Putz
“We must take care of them and ensure their safety. This is a political and humanitarian issue,” Kazakh President Tokayev said of the influx of Russians.
China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan Move Railway Plans Forward With Agreement at SCO
By Catherine Putz
Under the September 14 agreement, the three parties will jointly fund a feasibility study of a proposed route through Kyrgyzstan necessary to bring the CKU Railway into being.
The Most Important Shanghai Cooperation Summit Ever?
By Ankit Panda and Catherine Putz
The SCO meets at a time of geopolitical flux in the Asian heartland. What’s the significance?
Kazakhstan Continues to Break Ranks With Russia
By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez
The not-so-subtle criticism of the Russian government regarding Ukraine in Kazakh President Tokayev’s UNGA speech should not be overlooked.
Escalating Conflict on the Kyrgyz-Tajik Border: Whither the Regional Security Order?
By Asel Doolotkeldieva and Madeleine Reeves
Conflicts have intensified across the former Soviet Union, now in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. It’s a worrying and disillusioning development for the region.
As Russia Mobilizes, Central Asian Embassies Warn Citizens Against Joining a Foreign War
By Catherine Putz
The risks of Central Asian migrant workers being pressured into joining Russia’s war effort have intensified in tandem with Moscow’s desperation.